Dana White explains interim title with Islam Makhachev not fighting at UFC 336

ABU DHABI – Dana White didn't appear too pleased with Islam Makhachev not defending his belt at UFC 336.

All signs were pointing to welterweight champion Makhachev (29-1 MMA, 18-1 UFC) making his next title defense in January before Ramadan starts, but during the UFC 333 broadcast, it was announced that Carlos Prates (24-7 MMA, 7-1 UFC) will face Michael Morales (19-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) for the interim title in the Jan. 30 headliner at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto (Paramount+).

White highlighted Makhachev's inactivity when stating why an interim title was created.

"On average, Islam fights like once a year," White said during the post-fight news conference. "He was slated for January and then said, 'I don't want to fight until after Ramadan,' and you can't hold up divisions like this. You got to keep moving, and this fight makes sense. No reason."

Prates, who was in line for the title shot, blasted Makhachev for not fighting at UFC 336 by calling him a coward. The Brazilian scored three straight stoppage wins to earn his opportunity, but will now compete for an interim belt in Makhachev's absence.

interim fight between Prates and Morales.

"You can't hold up divisions like this. You've got to keep moving."

(via @UFC) pic.twitter.com/slUNOmHDq9

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) October 24, 2026