Islam Makhachev withdraws from UFC 336 title fight against Carlos Prates

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has withdrawn from his scheduled title defense against Carlos Prates at UFC 336. The championship bout was slated to headline the event on January 30, 2027, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Ag Fight first reported the withdrawal, though an official reason for Makhachev stepping down has not yet been disclosed.

UFC CEO Dana White declined to confirm or deny the report, describing it as "interesting." Prates' next steps remain undetermined, while Jesse Holland suggests the Brazilian contender could potentially face third-ranked Michael Morales for an interim belt. Makhachev last fought in August, defending his belt against Ian Garry at UFC 330.