Dana White explains why Carlos Prates and Michael Morales are fighting for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336.
UFC CEO Dana White has officially explained the decision to book an interim welterweight title fight between top contenders Carlos Prates and Michael Morales for the upcoming UFC 336 event in Toronto, scheduled for January 30.
The high-stakes 170-pound bout was announced after talks to have division champion Islam Makhachev defend his gold before Ramadan fell apart, according to reports that circulated just prior to the official card reveal.
Addressing reporters during the post-fight press conference, White emphasized that the welterweight division simply cannot wait for the champion, according to information published by bjpenn.
Why Islam Makhachev Forced an Interim Title Fight
According to Dana White, champion Islam Makhachev typically fights only about once a year, and after being slated for a January return, the champion stated he preferred not to compete until after Ramadan.
White firmly stressed that the promotion cannot afford to hold up entire divisions, making an interim championship bout a necessary step to keep the 170-pound weight class moving forward dynamically.
Carlos Prates and Michael Morales Lead Contenders
Carlos Prates and Michael Morales emerged as the clear top two contenders in the welterweight division, setting the stage for their explosive clash at UFC 336 in Toronto.
Prates was previously expected to meet Makhachev in an early 2027 title showdown, but he must first focus on handing Morales the very first professional loss of his MMA career.
After dropping a 2025 bout against Ian Machado Garry, Prates bounced back impressively by amassing a dominant three-fight winning streak with finishes over former champions.
The Path to UFC 336 and Championship Gold
During his recent surge, Prates secured impressive stoppage victories over former UFC welterweight champions Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards, alongside a finish of Geoff Neal.
Meanwhile, Michael Morales last competed in November 2025, where he stopped Sean Brady, who was widely regarded as one of the most dangerous contenders in the division at that time.
Despite past criticisms from Makhachev regarding his activity level, Morales now enters this undefeated matchup with a prime opportunity to prove he belongs at the absolute elite level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was an interim welterweight title booked for UFC 336?
Dana White booked the interim title fight because champion Islam Makhachev delayed his return until after Ramadan, and the UFC refused to hold up the welterweight division.
Who is fighting for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336?
Carlos Prates and Michael Morales will battle for the interim 170-pound gold on January 30 in Toronto.
Where is UFC 336 taking place?
The UFC 336 pay-per-view event featuring the interim welterweight championship bout is scheduled to take place in Toronto.
What led to Carlos Prates getting this title opportunity?
Carlos Prates earned his spot by bouncing back from a 2025 loss to Ian Machado Garry with a three-fight winning streak featuring finishes over Leon Edwards, Jack Della Maddalena, and Geoff Neal.
