Dana White has slammed Islam
Makhachev’s activity.
After defending his title against Ian Garry in
August, Makhachev called for another title defense before Ramadan
2027. The Dagestani even singled out Carlos
Prates as his next challenger. According to the
Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO, the matchup was verbally
agreed for UFC
336 on Jan. 30, 2027, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto before
Makhachev changed his mind.
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Dana White claims Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates was
‘verbally agreed’
While White doesn’t expect Makhachev to fight three times a year at
this stage in his career, he would like him to fight at least twice
a year.
“That was verbally agreed to… I like when guys fight a lot,” White
said during a media scrum captured by TheMacLife. “Being a
champion, I don’t really expect you to fight three times a year.
But twice would be nice. It backs up the division; there are many
guys who would like a shot at the title.”
Makhachev (29-1) hasn’t fought more than twice a year since 2022.
Prates (24-7) and unbeaten welterweight contender Michael
Morales (19-0) are now set to contest interim gold at UFC 336,
with the winner set to fight Makhachev after Ramadan.