Islam Makhachev Reportedly Set to Defend Welterweight Title vs Carlos Prates at UFC 336

Islam Makhachev is reportedly on the verge of his next UFC welterweight title defense. The champion is expected to face Brazilian contender Carlos Prates in the main event of UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto, Canada, according to recent fight industry reports. This matchup would allow Makhachev to compete before the start of Ramadan in February 2027, a timeline he explicitly requested after his last victory.

Makhachev's timeline is driven by faith and urgency

Immediately after defending his belt against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August, Makhachev laid out his plans. "We have to fight before Ramadan, 100 per cent," the champion said. He emphasized his desire for activity, noting his age and current health. "I am not, like, twenty-something anymore. I am 34 years old, and I have to fight as soon as possible. I am not cutting much weight. I don't have any big injuries." The proposed January date for UFC 336 fits this schedule perfectly, positioning the champion for a quick return after a five month break.

Carlos Prates emerges as the leading contender

The challenger, Carlos Prates, has forcefully argued his case for a title shot. 'The Nightmare' bolstered his resume earlier this year with a knockout victory over Jack Della Maddalena, the same man Makhachev defeated to win the 170-pound title in November 2025. That win extended Prates's streak to three consecutive victories. His power striking presents a clear stylistic contrast to the champion's renowned grappling game.

Fight predictions are already pouring in

As news of the potential booking spreads, predictions from fellow fighters are creating a buzz. Former UFC title challenger Colby Covington offered a blunt assessment, forecasting a dominant night for the champion. "Carlos has nothing for him. He's just a straight striker. That's gonna be the easiest fight of Makhachev's career," Covington told Ariel Helwani. "I think he takes him down and submits him with like a Kimura or a head-and-arm choke." Conversely, Prates's teammate, Jean Silva, expressed supreme confidence in the challenger's chances, publicly doubting Makhachev's ability to survive five rounds with Prates's punishing offense.

Makhachev's successful move to welterweight and his continued dominance have reignited discussions about his legacy. Former UFC fighter Diana Belbita recently placed him among the sport's absolute elite. "We have Jon Jones that I think he is definitely one of the best. We have Georges St-Pierre and I feel like Makhachev is somewhere there," Belbita said. She highlighted the quality of his victories across two weight classes, arguing he belongs in the top three, or at least top five, fighters of all time. This fight against Prates represents another step in building that historic resume.

• Makhachev vs. Prates is the targeted main event for UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto.
• The champion, 34, insisted on fighting before Ramadan begins in February 2027.
• Prates earned his shot with a knockout win over Jack Della Maddalena earlier this year.
• Makhachev's first welterweight title defense was a decision win over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August.