Makhachev avoids title defense against Prates

Islam Makhachev has decided not to defend his UFC welterweight championship title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336 in January. Instead, he has allowed an interim title fight between Prates and Michael Morales to occur, with Makhachev planning to face the winner of that bout.

Prates has strong recent performance

Carlos Prates has won three consecutive fights by knockout since his loss to Ian Machado Garry. He has defeated former champions Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards, as well as veteran Geoff Neal, showing he remains a formidable contender in the welterweight division.

Morales is undefeated and rising

Michael Morales has an undefeated record in MMA with 19 wins and no losses. His last three fights ended before the bell, with victories over Sean Brady, Gilbert Burns, and Neil Magny, solidifying his reputation as a top contender in the welterweight division.

UFC schedules interim title fight

The UFC organized an interim title fight between Morales and Prates after Makhachev decided not to participate in the January 30 card in Toronto. This decision followed months of speculation about a potential fight between Prates and Makhachev, but the situation shifted when Makhachev changed his mind about competing.

UFC CEO defends the decision

Dana White, CEO of the UFC, stated that the fight between Morales and Prates was scheduled after Makhachev changed his mind about participating in January. He criticized the champion for his infrequent fight schedule, noting that the organization could not block progress in the division and that the fight makes logical sense.

Makhachev may remain inactive for months

Makhachev’s decision may leave his fans waiting for his return, as he may not fight again until the summer of 2027. Many had hoped he would compete before the sacred month of Ramadan, which begins on February 7, but the interim title fight may delay his next appearance in the octagon.