PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 15: Islam Makhachev of Russia reacts after a victory against Ian Machado Garry of Ireland in the UFC welterweight championship fight during the UFC 330 event at Xfinity Mobile Arena on August 15, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC) Dan Hiergesell · SB Nation Thu, November 5, 2026 at 8:00 AM UTC · 2 min read About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islam Makhachev was expected to defend his UFC welterweight title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336 in January, but ultimately pulled out after verbally agreeing to the main event matchup.
This is according to UFC CEO, Dana White, who is disappointed the division will now be held up in light of Makhachev's absence.
Makhachev, who is regarded as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport today, has never been the most active champion. In fact, the 35-year-old veteran has made just four trips to the Octagon over the past three years. That's really not the type of activity you want to see from the best fighter in the sport.
While UFC matchmakers were hoping to have Makhachev back in action this coming January the welterweight king eventually shot down a main event title defense at UFC 336. This left UFC officials no other choice than to book Prates against fellow contender Michael Morales for the interim UFC title. Not a bad consolation prize, but not the fight everyone wanted.
On Wednesday, White spoke with MMA Junkie and revealed that Makhachev had verbally agreed to fight Prates before withdrawing. White isn't upset with Makhachev, but he understands the champ's decision now ties the division up even longer.
"As a champion, I don't really expect you to fight three times a year. But twice would be nice," said White.
"It backs up the division, there are many guys who would like a shot for a title."
Source: Sports
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