UFC 336: Prates and Morales to fight for interim welterweight title Jan. 30

The interim belt exists because Makhachev, who had been slated to defend against Prates in January, told the UFC he did not want to fight until after Ramadan. White said at the UFC 333 press conference that divisions cannot be held up like this. Yahoo Sports/Uncrowned reports Makhachev cited too little preparation time, since Ramadan begins nine days after the event. Combat Sports UK notes Ramadan in 2027 runs from 8 February to 8 March.

Prates reacted angrily online, vowing to knock out Morales on Jan. 30 and then come back to retire the champion. Makhachev answered on X by pointing to Ian Garry, who beat Prates and whom Makhachev later beat: "Shut up and go train. You're not on my level." He has also written that there are many contenders and that he will find out who deserves the shot.

No return date exists for Makhachev. The UFC broadcast mentioned he could be ready as soon as May, but the promotion chose not to wait. Prates arrives on three straight knockouts, including former champions Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena. Morales is 19-0 and last stopped Sean Brady at UFC 322.