Prates Slams Makhachev Following UFC 336 Withdrawal

Pulse Sports Team 08:28 - 26 October 2026

Brazilian contender Carlos Prates has launched a scathing attack on welterweight champion Islam Makhachev after the UFC officially scheduled an interim title bout between Prates and Michael Morales for January 30.

Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare", was initially in talks with the promotion to face Makhachev in Toronto, Canada. However, the bout fell through after the Russian champion informed the UFC that he would not be ready to fight on that date.

Following the official announcement of the new matchup, Prates took to social media with a fiery message aimed directly at Makhachev:

"Islam Makhachev, I've been chasing my dream of becoming a champion for 17 years, and you put it on hold. I'm number one. I've knocked out two former champions, while Morales has only beaten Sean Brady. You told the UFC that three months isn't enough time to prepare. Brother, you don't drink, you don't smoke, and you don't party—how can you not get in shape in three months? Let me show you how it's done. On January 30, I will knock out Michael Morales, and then I'm coming back to retire you, you coward!"

Prates is currently in blistering form, riding a three-fight knockout streak and finishing all of his opponents across seven victories under the UFC banner. His upcoming rival, Morales, remains undefeated in his professional career with 19 consecutive wins, including seven inside the UFC Octagon.

Makhachev was quick to issue a reply, reminding Prates that he recently defeated Ian Machado Garry—the only fighter to beat the Brazilian in the promotion.

"I just beat the guy who chased you around the Octagon for five rounds. Shut up and go train. You're not on my level. See you soon... maybe. As soon as we figure out who the real contender is, we'll be back. We need to see who's better and who really deserves it," the champion responded.

The matchup between Prates and Morales will serve as the co-main event at UFC 336 at Scotiabank Arena. In the headliner, Joshua Van will defend his flyweight championship belt against Manel Kape.