UFC 336 to feature interim welterweight title bout in Toronto

The UFC has announced that UFC 336, scheduled for January 30, 2027, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada, will feature an interim welterweight championship fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales. The decision follows the unavailability of reigning champion Islam Makhachev, who reportedly declined to compete in January due to the timing of Ramadan.

Carlos Prates, a Brazilian fighter with a 24-7 professional record, enters the bout following a string of knockout victories over former champions Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena. Michael Morales, an undefeated Ecuadorian fighter with a 19-0 record, currently holds the third position in the welterweight rankings.

The event will also feature a flyweight title defense, where Joshua Van is set to face Manel Kape in the main event. The addition of the interim title ensures the division remains active while the promotion awaits Makhachev’s return, which is projected for later in 2027.