Sports News Report
League: UFCSport: MMACountry: GlobalCategory: Scores & Results

Cormier defends Makhachev against accusations of ducking Prates at UFC 336

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 12, 2026, 6:46 AM

Last updated Nov 12, 2026

Cormier defends Makhachev against accusations of ducking Prates at UFC 336
Summary

Daniel Cormier, in a recent YouTube video, backed Islam Makhachev amid claims he is avoiding a fight with Carlos Prates for UFC 336, scheduled for January 30 in Toronto. Makhachev decided to withdraw from negotiations, citing a growing pool of contenders and considering his own future in the sport. Cormier asserted that Makhachev is willing to face Prates and dismissed the notion that Makhachev is afraid. He suggested Prates focus on his upcoming fight with Michael Morales before seeking a title shot. Makhachev, observing Ramadan starting February 8, is expected to return to competition around mid-2027.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Makhachev withdrew from UFC 336 negotiations against Prates.
  • •Cormier argues Makhachev is not ducking any fighters.
  • •Prates must first defeat Morales to strengthen his title contention.
  • •Ramadan begins February 8, affecting Makhachev's availability.
  • •UFC 336 takes place January 30 in Toronto.
Latest Updates
  • 6:46 AMYahoo Sports — Daniel Cormier Defends Islam Makhachev Against Claims of Ducking Carlos Prates at UFC 336
What they're saying
"

Daniel Cormier backs Islam Makhachev and says the Dagestani is not afraid of Carlos Prates or any other UFC welterweight contender.

Related Teams & Leagues
UFCMMA

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days