Prates Blasts Makhachev After Title Shot Falls Through
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Carlos Prates had already started preparing for Islam Makhachev when the UFC told him the welterweight champion was no longer interested in fighting Jan. 30.
The unbeaten Brazilian welterweight will now face Michael Morales for an interim title in the co-main event of UFC 336, with flyweight champion Joshua Van defending against Manel Kape in the new headliner. Prates, who went 7-0 in the UFC with every win by knockout, accused Makhachev of dodging the fight despite public claims about staying active.
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Prates Says Champion Backed Out
The date had been set aside for Makhachev, according to Prates, who told Laerte Viana that UFC executive Hunter Campbell confirmed as much before the champion reversed course. Prates said he was already studying tape and training specifically for Makhachev when the promotion called with the news.
Morales brings a perfect 19-0 record to the cage, with seven straight wins inside the Octagon. Prates has been competing for 17 years and now needs to win an interim belt to secure a future matchup with the lightweight champion turned welterweight titleholder.
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The Brazilian said Morales will pay for Makhachev's decision, then promised to settle the score with the champion later. UFC 336 takes place Jan. 30 with the interim welterweight title fight as the co-main event.
Photo by Diego Corona on Unsplash
Original reporting:
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