UFC Vegas 106: What Is the Meaning Behind Michael Morales’ Tattoos?

Tattoos! They are the picture of an athlete’s mentality, how they perceive combat, family, their views, and life. Sports, in general, have long been a place where ink serves as a form of expression, and in the UFC, that’s even more true. Conor McGregor’s gorilla and tiger tattoos are iconic, they reflect the Irishman’s confidence and ferocious nature. Max Holloway’s angel and devil wings tell a story of balance and belief. Michael Morales, the undefeated prospect of the UFC, also has the same idea with his body art. 

The 25-year-old Ecuadorian has proven to be a force to be reckoned with inside the Octagon. He’s currently riding an impressive five-fight winning streak, and after battering Neil Magny in his last outing, Morales is set to face another legend, Gilbert Burns, at this weekend’s Fight Night event. But before we see him back in action, let’s get to know him a little better and take a closer look at the multiple tattoos on his body.

What do Michael Morales’ chest and neck tattoos mean?

Neck tattoos are among the most painful to get, but Morales sports a symmetrical design featuring the number 22. He got the tattoo three years ago, after his UFC debut, so it likely symbolizes his age at the time. Morales earned his shot in the UFC after defeating Nikolay Veretennikov on Dana White’s Contender Series. He made his official debut at UFC 270: Ngannou vs. Gane in January 2022.

On his chest, Morales has a tattoo that resembles a compass or the Sun with an eye at its center, along with a feather tattoo. Once again, the Ecuadorian has never explained the meaning behind this art, but the compass with an eye is often seen as a symbol of guidance, time, freedom, and awareness. The feather, on the other hand, could represent lightness or resilience in tough situations.

Tattoos on Michael Morales’ arms and other body parts

On Morales’s lower abdomen, the word ‘Arrecho’ is tattooed, a term that means “I’m sorry” in Corsican. On his right arm, he sports a full sleeve featuring palm trees symbolizing his roots in Ecuador, a country known for its lush tropical landscapes. The sleeve also includes the UFC logo, marking his place in the world’s premier MMA organization.

Alongside that, there’s the ‘Om’ symbol—a symbol of significance in the Hindu faith which represents the “the primordial sound of creation”—reflecting his openness to diverse beliefs, and perhaps a nod to his spiritual side. He also has a Spartan warrior tattoo, representing his warrior mentality and fighting spirit.

On his left arm, the UFC prospect sports another full sleeve tattoo featuring his last name, “Morales,” a masked female figure, and the word “Ratty”, which appears to be a name, though its significance remains unknown. He also has various designs across his legs and back, many of which incorporate intricate patterns. Notably, several red rose designs stand out, complementing the darker color tones and artwork across his body.

Those are definitely some of the most interesting tattoos on Michael Morales’s body. If you’re a fan of the rising Ecuadorian prospect, drop a comment below and let us know which tattoo you think is his best!

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