UFC Books Interim Welterweight Title After Makhachev Snub

This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team.

The UFC is moving forward with an interim welterweight title fight after Islam Makhachev turned down a matchup with Carlos Prates for UFC 336.

Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, had been the subject of talk about a jump to 170 pounds to challenge for a second title, with Prates positioned as his likely dance partner. That fight did not come together for UFC 336, and rather than wait on Makhachev, the promotion is now pushing ahead with an interim welterweight title bout to keep the division active.

Why Islam Makhachev Passed on Carlos Prates

Islam Makhachev declined to face Carlos Prates at UFC 336, and that decision is what pushed the UFC toward booking an interim title fight in the first place. No opponent, date or location has been confirmed for the interim title bout.

Ariel Helwani's Take on the Interim Title Booking

Ariel Helwani addressed the UFC's move to book an interim welterweight title fight once the Makhachev-Prates matchup fell through for UFC 336. His comments came as reaction to the booking itself rather than as new details on who will actually fight for the interim belt.

What It Means for the Welterweight Picture

Carlos Prates stays very much in the mix at 170 pounds after being the name tied to the scrapped Makhachev fight, even though it is not yet clear if he lands in the interim title bout. An interim title fight usually means the UFC wants a weight class moving while the bigger prize, in this case a Makhachev title run at welterweight, waits for the right moment. Until the matchup and date are official, there is nothing concrete for bettors to price, so any lines that surface now should be treated as speculative at best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the UFC booking an interim welterweight title fight?

The UFC is booking an interim welterweight title fight after Islam Makhachev declined to face Carlos Prates at UFC 336.

Is Islam Makhachev moving up to welterweight?

Islam Makhachev was linked to a possible welterweight fight against Carlos Prates, but he turned that matchup down for UFC 336, leading the UFC to pursue an interim title fight instead.