Credit: Jeff Bottari//Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC
UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev’s return to the Octagon against Carlos Prates reportedly won’t be at the first major event of 2027.
Islam Makhachev is widely expected to face surging welterweight contender Carlos Prates in his next title defense. Makhachev most recently defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 after winning the title over Jack Della Maddalena last year.
As 2027 quickly approaches, it’s been rumored online that Makhachev vs. Prates will headline the UFC’s return to Toronto at UFC 336 in January. As of this writing, the UFC hasn’t announced any fights for the upcoming card.
Makhachev vs. Prates is arguably one of the biggest fights in welterweight history, with Makhachev’s historic win streak on the line against the fast-charging Prates. Unfortunately, fans will have to reportedly wait a bit longer to see Makhachev and Prates clash inside the Octagon.
REPORT: Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates fight SCRATCHED from UFC 336
Ag. Fight reported on Friday that Makhachev won’t return at UFC 336 in Toronto, indefinitely postponing his likely showdown with Prates. The UFC matchmakers are reportedly in the process of booking a new headliner for the promotion’s return to Scotiabank Arena.
Makhachev typically doesn’t fight during Ramadan, meaning the soonest that Makhachev could return is February, before he takes several months away from fighting. He hasn’t fought since defending the welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.
Makhachev’s manager said earlier this week that the Prates fight ‘isn’t close’ to getting finalized. If Makhachev is sidelined for a few months, Prates could potentially face an alternative opponent, possibly an interim title fight.
UFC 335 was taken out of the mix for Makhachev vs. Prates after Charles Oliveira vs. Diego Lopes was announced. As of this writing, Makhachev hasn’t revealed his desired timeframe for his next title defense.
What is your prediction for the potential Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates fight? Share your thoughts in the comments!
This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM
