Islam Makhachev declines UFC title defense against Carlos Prates

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has explained his decision to decline a January 2027 title defense against Carlos Prates. Makhachev stated that he prefers to see Prates and Michael Morales compete first to determine a worthy challenger. He noted that Prates recently lost to Ian Machado Garry, an opponent Makhachev has already defeated, and argued that defeating Prates would leave Morales waiting in line without a fight.

UFC CEO Dana White expressed frustration over the champion's inactivity, noting that Makhachev requested to delay his return until after Ramadan in 2027. In response to the scheduling change, the UFC has booked an interim welterweight championship bout between Prates and Morales for UFC 336 in Toronto on January 30, 2027. The winner of this match will earn the right to face Makhachev for the undisputed title.

The decision has sparked significant tension between the fighters. Carlos Prates criticized Makhachev on social media, calling him a “coward” for not being ready to fight on short notice. Makhachev responded by telling Prates to “shut up and go train,” asserting that Prates is not on his level.