Michael Morales left fans puzzled after sharing footage from his New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The UFC welterweight contender is known for devastating knockouts, not viral costumes.
Morales surged into title contention after stopping Sean Brady at UFC 322.
He is now waiting for the division to settle before a potential title shot.
To mark the end of the year, Morales wore a black dress while celebrating in Ecuador.
The outfit relates to the traditional Ecuadorian “Año Viejo” celebration.
During the festival, men dress as widows mourning the old year.
They dance, joke with drivers and collect coins to fund local parties.
While common locally, the tradition confused many international fans.
Fellow welterweight Joaquin Buckley questioned whether Morales was enjoying it a little too much.
The moment contrasted sharply with Morales’ fearsome image inside the Octagon.
