It looks like fans will have to wait a little longer to see Islam Makhachev return to the Octagon. Over the past few weeks, reports from the likes of Alvaro Colmenero suggested that the Dagestani would defend his welterweight title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336.
Although Michael Morales served as the backup fighter for Makhachev’s last fight at UFC 330, the promotion had other plans. Prates confirmed that he was next in line to face the champion after signing a new eight-fight deal with the UFC.
With UFC 336 officially scheduled for January 30 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada, fans were looking forward to the potential title fight. However, the latest reports suggest that Makhachev is no longer being considered for the card. And naturally, the news caught the attention of UFC CEO Dana White.
Islam Makhachev’s Title Defense Faces a Potential Months-Long Delay
Prates recently posted a video calling out Makhachev, claiming he is “wrestling’s worst nightmare.” Responding to the video on Twitter, Colmenero hinted that the Brazilian could get his title shot as early as January 2027.
He wrote, “Prates can train hard now because, if the negotiations continue on their course, we’ll see the Brazilian fighting against Islam Makhachev next January 30 at #UFC336 in Toronto.”
However, according to a report from Ag Fight on Friday, Makhachev has withdrawn from UFC 336, although the reason remains unclear. The development came up during Nina Stream’s Kick stream with Dana White.
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The UFC boss refused to confirm or deny the news, simply calling the report “interesting,” with a smile. However, the Brazilian outlet reported that the promotion is now exploring other options for the January 30 event at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.
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Meanwhile, Ariel Helwani added that Makhachev vs. Prates is no longer the targeted main event for UFC 336. According to the journalist, the matchup was the original plan, but the date no longer works for the welterweight champion. The exact reason behind the change remains unknown.
This is certainly frustrating for fans who were hoping to see Makhachev defend his title early in 2027. With the January date seemingly off the table, his return could be pushed back by several months, potentially putting his next fight well after Ramadan, which is scheduled to begin on February 8.
Islam Makhachev vs Carlos Prates is no longer the target to headline UFC 336 in Toronto, per sources.
That was originally the hope/plan, but I’m told the UFC is looking elsewhere now. Date doesn’t work for Makhachev anymore. Unclear why.
No word just yet on the new target.
First reported by @AgFight.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 23, 2026
The UFC could also explore a matchup between Prates and Morales for an interim welterweight title if Makhachev remains unavailable. Both contenders have been linked to the title picture, and an interim belt could help keep the division moving while the champion’s situation becomes clearer.