Makhachev steps back for Ramadan as Prates vs Morales interim title fight set

Islam Makhachev, the UFC’s pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter, will not defend his welterweight championship at UFC 336 in January, according to the UFC ^[1]. The promotion confirmed an interim title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales for the event, now set for January 30 at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena ^[2]. Makhachev, 34, is expected to return in the second quarter of 2027, with his absence attributed to the Muslim holiday of Ramadan beginning in February.

Makhachev, who recently outpointed Ireland’s Ian Machado Garry in August to extend his winning streak to 17 fights — a UFC record dating back to 2015 — had been rumored to headline UFC 336 ^[1]. His current record stands at 29-1 ^[2].

Prates, 33, is 7-1 in the UFC with seven knockout wins, including victories over former champions Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards. His only loss came via decision to Machado Garry ^[1]. Overall, he is 24-7.

Michael Morales, 27, is undefeated in the UFC with a 7-0 record and five knockouts, four of which came in the first round. He is 19-0 overall ^[2].

The interim title bout will serve as the co-main event at UFC 336, with the flyweight title fight between Joshua Van and Manel Kape headlining the card ^[2].

The decision to book an interim title fight comes as Makhachev prepares for a longer break, with his return delayed beyond the original January date ^[2]. The move signals the UFC’s confidence in both Prates and Morales as top contenders, despite the absence of the reigning champion. The story was first reported by The Independent and ESPN.