UFC welterweight contender Carlos Prates has responded sharply to remarks made by Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev. The back-and-forth stems from Makhachev passing on a scheduled title defense against Prates at UFC 336, prompting the organization to set up an interim championship bout between Prates and Michael Morales instead.
Ali Abdelaziz Defends Makhachev
Following criticism from fans regarding Makhachev’s decision not to face Prates on that specific date, Abdelaziz took to social media to defend the champion. Abdelaziz posted on X that contenders should speak less because the champion makes opponents look bad, adding that challengers do not contribute to Makhachev’s legacy since he competes for passion, love of the sport, and the fans.
Carlos Prates Fires Back
Prates quickly answered the manager’s comments through his own social media account with a strong statement regarding Makhachev’s legacy. Prates wrote on X that if the champion truly fought for passion, he would face the top contender in January, adding that he intends to finish rather than add to Makhachev’s legacy while making himself look great in the process.
Path to a Potential Fight
Although Makhachev’s refusal to take the fight led to accusations of avoiding the contender, a matchup between the two remains possible if Prates defeats Morales at UFC 336. Claiming the interim welterweight belt would force a title unification bout against Makhachev, removing any opportunity for the champion to decline a fight with him again.
