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Ariel Helwani Critiques UFC's Interim Welterweight Title Decision
MMA reporter Ariel Helwani voiced his opinion regarding the UFC's move to schedule an interim welterweight title fight after Islam Makhachev declined a bout against Carlos Prates at UFC 336. Originally, Makhachev was set to face Prates in Toronto this January, but the reigning champion decided to delay his return until after Ramadan.
Though Prates is viewed as the top contender, Makhachev disagreed, which sparked tension and public exchanges between the two fighters, with Prates accusing Makhachev of avoiding the matchup. Consequently, Prates will now battle Michael Morales for the interim title.
Helwani Calls Interim Title Premature
Helwani openly criticized the timing of the interim championship. He pointed out that Makhachev defended his title successfully against Ian Machado Garry just two months ago at UFC 330 in August.
"I don't have a problem with Islam not returning in five months. The problem is he said that was his plan, then changed his mind," Helwani explained on his show. "There's no reason for an interim title when he fought so recently. By the time the interim fight occurs, it will only be five months since his last defense."
Helwani Questions Makhachev’s Reasoning
The main reason Makhachev gave for refusing to fight Prates was based on Prates' loss to Ian Machado Garry. Makhachev felt it made little sense to fight someone who had been defeated by a fighter he himself had just beaten.
Helwani disagreed with that logic, highlighting Prates’ recent form, which includes two consecutive finishes after the loss. He stated the interim title bout between Prates and Morales is now Prates’ opportunity to prove his status as a worthy contender.
"I'm glad there's an interim title because the fighters get more perks and pay," Helwani said. "But it's frustrating that the anticipated fight of Makhachev vs. Prates isn't happening. Makhachev initially wanted a fight in December or January, yet now refuses Prates because of a loss two years ago. It just doesn’t add up."
