Islam Makhachev pulls out of UFC 336 fight against Carlos Prates
Toronto Main Event Collapses as Makhachev Pulls Out
Islam Makhachev has dropped out of his planned welterweight title defense against Carlos Prates at UFC 336. The promotion is now pivoting to an interim championship bout between Prates and Michael Morales instead.
The card is scheduled to take place at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on January 30. It will now feature a new main event with Joshua Van facing Manel Kape for the World Flyweight Championship.
Dana White commented on why Islam Makhachev isn’t fighting at #UFC336 in Toronto:“He was slated for January, and then said I don't want to fight until after Ramadan. You can’t hold up divisions like this.” pic.twitter.com/AvblSlRe3U
Dana White Cites Frustration Over Fighter Timelines
UFC President Dana White addressed the shift publicly. He explained that the champion indicated he did not want to fight on the January timeline.
White stated that the division cannot be held up waiting for fighters who average one appearance a year. However, historical records show Makhachev fought twice in 2025, 2023, 2022, and 2021.
When asked if a specific reason was provided for the sudden change of mind, White told reporters that no reason was given.
Contlicting Reports Emerge on Contract Breakdown
Initial reports from Ag Fight in Brazil indicated that negotiations were underway. Prominent MMA journalist Ariel Helwani later reported on X that the January 30 date simply no longer works for Makhachev, leaving the exact motives unclear.
Rib Injury Shadows Champion’s Recent History
The cancellation follows a previous physical hurdle for the champion. Makhachev sustained a rib injury during his successful title defense against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August, absorbing 16 body shots during the bout.
That injury resulted in a mandatory 30-day medical suspension that concluded on September 14.
🚨 BREAKING: Islam Makhachev vs Carlos Prates is OFF UFC 336 in JanuaryThe fight was originally scheduled to headline the card, but Makhachev is now out of the main event(via @AgFight) pic.twitter.com/IwxTNI3zNv
Makhachev Faces Uncertain Future After Rib Injury
Before that suspension expired, Makhachev disclosed to Match TV on September 9 that he had undergone three MRI scans to evaluate the damaged rib. At the time, he maintained that the injury was minor and expressed willingness to compete before Ramadan begins on February 8.
Despite those earlier intentions, the timeline has shifted. The promotion has moved forward with Prates and Morales to contest the interim belt in Canada. This leaves Makhachev’s next career steps uncertain as recovery timelines and promotional demands collide at the top of the division.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.