Prates Vows To Finish Makhachev's Legacy After Ali Rebuke

Carlos Prates has issued a stark warning to Islam Makhachev after the lightweight champion's manager defended his decision to skip UFC 336. Prates will fight Michael Morales for interim gold on Jan. 30, 2027 in Toronto while Makhachev waits to return after Ramadan.

Dominance MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz took to X to defend his client amid criticism over the delayed timeline, writing that contenders should talk less because Makhachev fights for passion and love of the sport. Prates responded directly, according to a post shared by BJPenn.com. "If he fights for passion, he would fight the number 1 contender in January," the Brazilian wrote. "I will not add anything on his legacy, I will finish his legacy brother, and also, he will make me look great. Mark my words."

The matchup between Prates and Morales pairs two of the division's hottest contenders. Prates has stopped his last three opponents, including two former UFC champions, while the undefeated Morales most recently beat Sean Brady in Nov. 2025. Both fighters are ranked in the top five at welterweight.

Makhachev holds the 170-pound title and is widely regarded as one of the best fighters of his generation. The interim bout will determine who waits for him when he returns later in 2027.