Makhachev vs. Prates Reportedly Targeted for UFC 336

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev (29-1)  is reportedly being targeted for a title defense against Carlos Prates (24-7) at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto, Canada.

Discussions for the fight are reportedly underway, with the 170-pound championship bout being discussed as the main event for the UFC’s first numbered event of 2027.

Makhachev won the welterweight belt with a unanimous decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena in November 2025, before defending it against Ian Machado Garry, beating him by unanimous decision on August 16.

Prates, meanwhile, has won three consecutive fights, most recently knocking out former champion Della Maddalena in the third round of their fight in Perth on May 2.

The Brazilian has repeatedly called for a title opportunity against Makhachev in the months since.

The proposed January date would accommodate Makhachev’s desire to compete before Ramadan begins in February.

“We have to fight before Ramadan, 100 per cent,” Makhachev said after beating Garry.

A potential welterweight matchup between undefeated contenders Shavkat Rakhmonov and Michael Morales has also been linked to UFC 336, although neither fight has been officially announced by the promotion.