Overview
- Makhachev’s manager Rizvan Magomedov publicly said on Wednesday that a Jan. 30 title bout with Carlos Prates is “not close to reality” and called recent reports “just rumours and talk.”
- Magomedov confirmed talks over Islam Makhachev’s next welterweight defense are ongoing but said that confirming a date or opponent is still far from realistic.
- Multiple outlets have linked Makhachev to headlining UFC 336 on Jan. 30 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto with Prates as the leading reported challenger, but no official announcement has been made.
- Makhachev previously said he wants to return before Ramadan, which is expected in early February 2027, creating scheduling pressure for any late‑January date.
- If Makhachev is booked in January it would reshape contender paths at 170 pounds — including plans for fighters like Michael Morales — and fans should await an official UFC announcement for confirmation.