Islam Makhachev’s proposed return at UFC 336 in Toronto is still far from confirmed. His manager, Rizvan Magomedov, has downplayed the reports. Reports have linked the welterweight champion to a January 30 title defence against Carlos Prates. But Magomedov told Russian outlet Ushatayka that the matchup remains “just rumours and talk.” Negotiations are ongoing, though no date or opponent has been agreed. Makhachev has expressed a desire to fight again before Ramadan begins in early February. UFC 336, scheduled for January 30 in Toronto, had emerged as a possible landing spot.
Makhachev’s manager casts doubt on the January return
Islam Makhachev has made no secret of wanting to fight again before Ramadan. This is expected to begin in early February 2027. After defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330 in August.
He said he needed to return either before the end of 2026 or in January, leaving UFC 336 as the obvious landing spot. Rizvan Magomedov, however, was careful not to commit to that plan.
“As of now, it’s not close to becoming a reality,” he said, adding that confirming a specific date and opponent was “still far from realistic.” He did admit that talks over Makhachev’s next welterweight defence are continuing.
Carlos Prates emerges as Makhachev’s most dangerous welterweight challenge
Carlos Prates has become the leading name in those discussions. The Brazilian has surged quickly through the welterweight division. With knockout victories over Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena, he is on the title radar.
Javier Mendez, Islam Makhachev’s long-time coach, has already treated the possibility seriously. He described Prates as a dangerous contender and said Makhachev’s team would not underestimate him. Even while praising the challenger’s brash persona.
A fight between Makhachev’s grappling and Prates’ knockout power would make one of the most compelling welterweight title bouts in recent memory. But until the UFC announces it, Makhachev’s camp wants expectations kept in check.
UFC 336 will take place on January 30 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, giving Makhachev a realistic route to compete before Ramadan.
At present, Makhachev moves into the next step of his welterweight reign with a 29-1 professional record, including 18-1 in the UFC. His team’s message is simple: he wants to return in January, but the fight itself has yet to be determined.