Makhachev withdraws from January event

Islam Makhachev has stepped down from his scheduled title defense at UFC 336 in January, prompting the UFC to rearrange the event's main attractions. The change means Makhachev, who holds the lightweight title, will not headline the event on January 30 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.

Interim title fight announced

The UFC has instead set up a co-main event featuring a fight for the interim lightweight title between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales. This announcement was made during the broadcast of UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi, where the fight was officially confirmed.

Prates on a winning streak

Carlos Prates, a 33-year-old Brazilian fighter with a record of 24–7, has been on a strong winning streak since his last loss in April 2025. That loss was to Ian Machado Garry, but since then, Prates has defeated notable fighters like Jack Della Maddalena, Leon Edwards, and Geoff Neal, all by knockout.

Morales undefeated and ready

Michael Morales, ranked second in the lightweight division, is set to face Prates after a period of inactivity. The 27-year-old Ecuadorian has not fought since his knockout win over Sean Brady at UFC 322 in November 2025. Morales has an undefeated record in MMA and has ended his last three fights in the first round, defeating Brady, Gilbert Burns, and Neil Magny.

Makhachev's absence explained

UFC commentator Jon Anik explained that Makhachev is not available for the January event due to personal reasons. He is expected to return between May and July, likely after observing Ramadan, which is a significant religious observance in Islam.

UFC 336 event lineup

The current confirmed matchups for UFC 336 include a flyweight title fight between Joshua Van and Manel Kape, as well as the interim lightweight title contest between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales.