Islam Makhachev has explained why he declined a proposed January 2027 title defence against Carlos Prates, saying the Brazilian should first face Michael Morales to determine who has the strongest claim to challenge for the UFC welterweight championship.
The expected matchup between Makhachev and Prates will not take place at UFC 336. Instead, Prates is scheduled to meet the unbeaten Morales for the interim welterweight title, with the winner expected to face Makhachev in a future unification bout.
The change follows weeks of speculation that Makhachev would return to the Octagon in January to defend his championship. The Russian fighter has now outlined his reasoning, arguing that a contest between the two leading contenders would provide a clearer answer about the division’s next challenger.
Why Makhachev Turned Down the Prates Matchup
Makhachev confirmed that the UFC had offered him a fight against Prates. However, he questioned whether the Brazilian should receive an immediate title opportunity without first resolving the competition among the leading contenders.
Prates previously lost to Ian Machado Garry, whom Makhachev defeated in his own recent title defence. The champion pointed to that result while explaining why he preferred to see Prates and Morales compete against each other.
Makhachev also noted that Morales had been waiting for a championship opportunity. If he defeated Prates, Morales could still be next in line, potentially leaving the undefeated contender waiting without another fight.
His preferred approach is to let the two fighters settle the question inside the Octagon. Makhachev has indicated that he is willing to face whoever wins their interim title contest.
The decision therefore centres on establishing a clear challenger rather than allowing the welterweight title picture to remain divided between multiple contenders.
Prates Brings Momentum Into the Interim Title Fight
Despite his previous defeat to Garry, Prates has strengthened his position with a series of impressive performances. He has recorded three consecutive knockout victories, defeating Geoff Neal, former champion Leon Edwards and former champion Jack Della Maddalena.
Those results have helped the Brazilian remain firmly in contention for a title opportunity. His finishing record in the UFC has also made him a prominent name in the division.
Prates had appeared close to securing a direct championship fight with Makhachev. The interim title bout against Morales now gives him another route toward the undisputed championship.
For Prates, the upcoming contest represents an opportunity to turn his recent run of victories into a championship achievement.
Undefeated Morales Gets Another Opportunity
Morales presents a different challenge. The Ecuadorian contender remains unbeaten in his professional mixed martial arts career and has continued to build his reputation with strong performances.
His recent victories include finishes against Sean Brady, Gilbert Burns and Neil Magny. However, Makhachev questioned whether Morales should receive a title shot without competing again, given the time he has spent waiting for an opportunity.
The interim championship fight will allow Morales to strengthen his case directly against another leading contender. A victory would give him a major championship credential and put him in position to face Makhachev.
UFC 336 Changes the Welterweight Title Picture
UFC chief executive Dana White has also expressed frustration with Makhachev’s proposed schedule. According to White, the champion had initially been expected to compete in January before requesting a return after Ramadan.
Ramadan is expected to run from February 7 to March 8 in 2027. Makhachev’s decision could therefore delay his next appearance, although an exact return date has not been confirmed.
The interim title fight allows the UFC to keep the division moving while the reigning champion remains unavailable for the planned January matchup.
With Prates and Morales set to compete for the interim belt, the next stage of the welterweight championship picture is becoming clearer. Makhachev has said he intends to face the winner, leaving the eventual unification bout as the major contest to watch in 2027.
