UFC has booked an interim welterweight title fight for UFC 336 in Toronto on January 30, 2027, while Islam Makhachev remains the champion. If you follow the division or bet on UFC cards, here is what changed and why it matters for the title picture.
UFC announced Carlos Prates vs. Michael Morales for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. Islam Makhachev is the champion. The announcement does not give a reason for the interim title. Prates has said he will fight Morales only after he beats the champion, and the winner earns the right to face Makhachev.
An interim title is a belt given to one fighter while the champion is unavailable. The winner is the division’s acting champion until the undisputed champion returns to the cage.
Why is the UFC creating an interim welterweight title? The UFC has booked an interim title fight while Islam Makhachev remains champion. The official announcement does not state a reason.
Recap: UFC 336 will feature an interim welterweight title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on January 30, 2027. Islam Makhachev remains champion, and the fight winner earns the right to face him.
