Makhachev says he will not fight Prates for now

Islam Makhachev said he is not planning to fight Carlos Prates for now. In his view, Prates must first face Morales.

Makhachev said Prates recently lost to a fighter whom Makhachev had defeated. Morales has not fought for a year and is waiting for his chance. Makhachev said that if the two fight each other, it will become clear who is the real challenger for the title.

According to the database, Makhachev is the UFC welterweight champion with a 29-1 record. Prates, with a 24-7 record, is ranked No. 1 in the UFC welterweight division. A championship fight between the two was previously planned as the main event of UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, but Makhachev has said he cannot fight on that date.