Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, will no longer be competing in the main event of UFC 336, originally scheduled for January 30, 2027, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Multiple sources confirm the champion is off the card, and the UFC is currently considering alternative options to headline the event [3][4][5].
Initial Plans for UFC 336 Main Event
UFC had initially aimed to book a welterweight title bout between Islam Makhachev and the No. 2 contender Carlos Prates. Prates, a top-ranked Brazilian fighter with a current three-fight winning streak, was seen as the logical challenger after his recent stoppage victories over Geoff Neal and Leon Edwards. This proposed fight was highly anticipated given Makhachev’s dominant run and Prates’ rise in the division [3][4].
Reasons for Makhachev’s Withdrawal
Neither the UFC nor sources close to the situation have publicly disclosed specific reasons for Makhachev’s withdrawal from UFC 336. MMA journalist Ariel Helwani reported that the January date no longer worked for the champion, though the underlying cause remains unclear. There has been no indication that the change was due to injury or retirement, but rather scheduling or negotiation issues [3][5].
Implications for UFC 336 and Welterweight Division
With Makhachev off the card, UFC 336 is currently without a confirmed main event. The UFC is exploring possibilities, including either new headliners or remaining contenders like Prates potentially facing other opponents such as Michael Morales or Shavkat Rakhmonov. An interim title fight involving Prates might also be considered if Makhachev remains unavailable to defend his championship [4][5].
This development could significantly delay Makhachev’s next title defense, pushing it beyond early 2027. The delay could impact the welterweight division’s momentum and the UFC’s scheduling plans, necessitating contingency measures to maintain fan engagement and championship progression in the division [5].
Official UFC and Dana White Response
UFC President Dana White was asked about the change in UFC 336 plans during a livestream session. While he called the reports about Makhachev “interesting,” he stopped short of confirming or denying the fighter’s absence. The UFC remains silent regarding specific replacement plans or revised fight cards as of the most recent updates [3][5].
Background: Islam Makhachev’s Championship Reign
Islam Makhachev claimed the welterweight title at UFC 322 by defeating Sean Della Maddalena, and most recently defended his title against Ian Machado Garry via unanimous decision in August 2026. His record boasts 29 wins and a 17-fight winning streak, establishing him as one of the division’s dominant forces [3].
About Carlos Prates
Carlos Prates, ranked No. 2 in the welterweight division, has built a strong case for a title shot through notable victories and an eight-fight contract recently signed with the UFC. His aggressive style and finishing ability have made him a standout contender [3][4].
The UFC’s next steps for UFC 336 remain to be announced as the promotion works to finalize a compelling headliner for the event on January 30, 2027, in Toronto [3][4][5].
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