Dana White on Islam Makhachev: ‘Being the champ, I don’t really expect you to fight 3 times a year, but twice would be nice’

MMA Fighting • November 4, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

UFC confirmed that Islam Makhachev will not defend his welterweight title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336; instead, Prates will fight Michael Morales for an interim belt while Makhachev waits until after Ramadan to compete.
UFC CEO Dana White revealed that Makhachev initially agreed verbally to defend the title but later pulled out, expressing frustration over the champion's infrequent fighting schedule.
White suggested that Makhachev's reduced activity is likely due to financial security, as fighters tend to fight less frequently once they have earned substantial money.
Makhachev, currently the top pound-for-pound fighter and a two-division UFC champion, has an impressive record of 18-1 since 2015, including recent title defenses in both lightweight and welterweight divisions.
The creation of the interim title aims to keep the welterweight division active, allowing other contenders a chance at the belt while Makhachev remains inactive.

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