Strawweight, Josefine Knutsson (8-0):
Knutsson was highly touted by many including me prior to her UFC career. She’s won both her UFC fights but hasn’t performed to her best abilities.
Knutsson has obvious gaps in her game but with little work she can be a star. Her striking is already top-notch and has a credible ground game for a decorated striker. She needs to work with her takedown defense and work off her back. If Knutsson can get that fixed, watch out.
Welterweight, Michael Morales (16-0):
Morales has been on an upward trajectory since signing with the UFC in 2021 following his Contender Series contract-winning performance. In his four UFC fights, he’s beaten veterans in Trevin Giles, Jake Matthews, and Max Griffin. I believe I was one of the first people to know about Morales and he’s done nothing but excel. He’s well-rounded and you can see that he’s still growing as a fighter but is still beating guys with way more experience.
Morales continues to get his steady push as Neil Magny is set to be his next opponent.