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

Islam Makhachev is close to finalizing the second defense of his UFC welterweight title, with a bout against dangerous contender Carlos Prates targeted for UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto. This news comes as the champion balances fight preparation with an unexpected off-camera project involving a former rival.

Makhachev vs. Prates headlines the first UFC event of 2027

The promotion's calendar points to a swift return for Makhachev after his August victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. The devout Muslim fighter stated his clear intention to compete before Ramadan begins in early February. "We have to fight before Ramadan, 100 per cent," Makhachev said. "I am 34 years old, and I have to fight as soon as possible." The proposed date of January 30 fits that timeline perfectly, setting the stage for a high-stakes start to the new year. Makhachev captured the 170-pound belt by outpointing Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last November.

A challenger's knockout warning and a rival's prediction

Carlos Prates enters this potential matchup riding a three-fight win streak, capped by a knockout of Jack Della Maddalena earlier this year. His camp is confident in his power. Teammate Jean Silva issued a stark warning, arguing that Makhachev's willingness to strike with Garry would be disastrous against Prates. "The moment he lands his hand, the fight is over," Silva said of Prates' knockout ability. Not everyone shares that assessment. Former title challenger Colby Covington predicted a straightforward night for the champion. "Carlos has nothing for him," Covington told Ariel Helwani. "That's gonna be the easiest fight of Makhachev's career. I think he takes him down and submits him."

An unlikely camping trip with Alexander Volkanovski

Away from the Octagon, Makhachev is planning a unique collaboration. Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski revealed the two have discussed a trip to Dagestan for Volkanovski's YouTube cooking show, "Cooking With Volk." The adventure would involve hunting on horseback, camping in the mountains, and cooking their catch over a wood fire. "We have already chatted about it," Volkanovski said. "I'm telling you, it's going to happen." This friendly project highlights a surprising bond between two of the sport's top champions, who fought twice in the Octagon in 2023.

Key takeaways from the Makhachev news cycle

• Title Defense Scheduled: Islam Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto.
• Timeline Driven by Faith: The January date is essential for Makhachev to compete before the start of Ramadan in February.
• Differing Fight Predictions: While Prates' team warns of a knockout, analysts like Colby Covington foresee a dominant submission win for the champion.
• Off-Camera Adventure: Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski are planning a Dagestani hunting and camping trip for Volkanovski's YouTube series.