Fighters back Islam Makhachev for passing on Carlos Prates at UFC 336, criticizing the decision to introduce an interim title.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship recently targeted a championship bout between titleholder Islam Makhachev and top contender Carlos Prates for UFC 336 in Toronto next January. When the champion declined the offer, promotion matchmakers shifted focus to book Prates against Michael Morales for an interim belt, according to information published by mmamania.
UFC CEO Dana White expressed clear displeasure regarding the stalled championship plans. However, several notable combat sports personalities and athletes quickly stepped forward to defend the decorated titleholder, arguing that the creation of an interim championship was entirely unnecessary under the current circumstances.
As discussions regarding divisional politics continue across the mixed martial arts community, prominent figures like Henry Cejudo and Matt Brown have offered their perspectives on fighter leverage, contender matchups, and the legitimacy of the newly booked interim title bout.
Henry Cejudo defends Islam Makhachev stance on contenders
Former UFC bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo voiced strong support for the lightweight titleholder during a recent episode of his Pound 4 Pound podcast. Cejudo agreed that leading contenders should settle the rankings among themselves before challenging for the ultimate prize.
Cejudo noted that Michael Morales and Carlos Prates fighting each other creates an exciting pay-per-view main event on its own. He emphasized that this matchup gives the organization a clear path to determine the undisputed number one contender for Islam Makhachev.
Matt Brown addresses champion leverage and interim titles
Retired UFC welterweight Matt Brown explained that elite fighters rightfully earn the ability to be selective about their schedules and opponents. Brown questioned the logic behind introducing an interim belt so soon after the champion competed just two months prior.
Brown suggested that the quick rush to implement an interim title felt like a deliberate tactic by the promotion to pressure the champion. He reinforced the sentiment that the interim championship carries little real meaning given the active state of the division.
Dana White reaction and division context
Dana White previously acknowledged that highly accomplished champions usually receive substantial leeway regarding their careers. Islam Makhachev remains one of the most decorated athletes on the roster, holding titles across divisions and maintaining a remarkable winning streak.
Divisional activity has remained a talking point, as Michael Morales has not competed during the current year, and Carlos Prates has only made a single appearance since the previous year, further complicating the championship landscape in the organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Islam Makhachev pass on fighting Carlos Prates at UFC 336?
Islam Makhachev passed on the proposed bout against Carlos Prates for UFC 336 in Toronto, prompting the promotion to book an interim title fight between Prates and Michael Morales instead.
What did Henry Cejudo say about the situation?
Former UFC champion Henry Cejudo defended Islam Makhachev on his podcast, stating that top contenders like Michael Morales and Carlos Prates should fight each other first to determine the true challenger.
Why are fighters criticizing the UFC interim title?
Fighters like Matt Brown criticized the interim title because Islam Makhachev fought only two months prior, arguing that an interim belt is unnecessary and holds no real meaning.
Who is scheduled to fight for the interim strap?
Carlos Prates and Michael Morales are scheduled to face each other for the interim title after Islam Makhachev declined the initial championship defense offer.
