Prates Fires Back At Makhachev's Manager

Carlos Prates rejected claims from Islam Makhachev's manager that welterweight contenders would fail to enhance the champion's legacy.

Prates faces Michael Morales for the interim UFC welterweight title at UFC 336 on Jan. 30 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto after Makhachev declined to fight in January. The Brazilian had campaigned publicly for a shot at the undisputed belt and has accused the champion of avoiding him.

Prates Vows To End Makhachev's Legacy

Ali Abdelaziz recently addressed contenders as a group on social media, arguing that Makhachev fights for passion rather than legacy considerations. Prates countered that a truly passionate champion would accept the January date with the top contender. "If he fights for passion, he would fight the number 1 contender in January," Prates wrote on X, per Sherdog. "I will not add anything on his legacy, I will finish his legacy brother, and also, he will make me look great. Mark my words."

Abdelaziz had written that Makhachev is possibly the greatest fighter of his generation and that none of the current contenders would add to his achievements. The manager advised challengers to talk less or risk looking bad against the champion.

Prates meets Morales with the interim strap on the line in just over three months.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Carlos Prates to Islam Makhachev's manager: 'I will finish his legacy'