Islam Makhachev reacts to photo of Ilia Topuria and Michael Morales

Islam Makhachev replied with a telephone emoji after a photo showed Ilia Topuria and Michael Morales together in Madrid, an update relevant to his next bout.Both Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria have been linked as future opponents, while Michael Morales has emerged as a contender at welterweight. The UFC champion is expected to return this summer, and manager Ali Abdelaziz has indicated a defense against a "real welterweight".A Makhachev–Topuria matchup was rumored for a June White House card, but Topuria is scheduled to defend the lightweight title against interim champion Justin Gaethje on June 14. Morales, undefeated at 19-0, boosted his case by knocking out Sean Brady at UFC 322 last November. Makhachev's reaction suggests Morales may be next in line.