Islam Makhachev has been told by Carlos Prates that he has a summer deadline before he must hang up his gloves.
Two-weight world champion Makhachev decided against defending his welterweight belt at UFC 336, with Prates his touted opponent for the Toronto card. Instead, the Brazilian will take on Michael Morales in an interim title bout as the co-main event.
Makhachev’s decision frustrated promotional boss Dana White after he had initially verbally agreed. Since winning the title in November of 2025, Makhachev has defended his belt just once this year when he defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.
One thing that is worth noting when it comes to Islam Makhachev is his legendary career to date. He holds the record for lightweight title defences and surpassed his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov by moving up a division and winning a second belt at 170lb.
However, his lack of activity has served to hinder his standing in GOAT discussions. And this decision to not fight in January has further irked fans.
Now, Carlos Prates wants to impose a deadline on Makhachev for retirement, telling Squawka: “He should vacate his belt. Not now, it’s okay, we’re going to fight for the interim belt.
“But aft...