Dana White Criticises Makhachev Over UFC Title Defence Delay

Dana White Criticises Makhachev Over UFC Title Defence Delay

UFC CEO Dana White has criticised Islam Makhachev over his fighting activity after revealing that a proposed title defence against Carlos Prates was verbally agreed for UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto. White said he wants the champion to compete at least twice a year to prevent the welterweight division from being held up.

Makhachev, who holds a 29-1 professional record, last defended his title against Ian Garry in August and has called for another fight before Ramadan 2027. White said he does not expect champions at Makhachev’s stage of their careers to fight three times annually, but believes two title defences a year would give more contenders an opportunity.

Prates, with a 24-7 record, will now face unbeaten contender Michael Morales, who stands at 19-0, for interim welterweight gold at UFC 336. The winner is expected to challenge Makhachev after Ramadan, setting up another major test for the reigning champion.