Carlos Prates Calls Islam Makhachev 'Lazy’ Before UFC 336, Promises To Retire Him

Carlos Prates prepares to face Michael Morales in co-main event of UFC 336© NDTV Library

Carlos Prates has taken another shot at Islam Makhachev after missing out on an opportunity to challenge him for the UFC welterweight championship. The Brazilian believes the Russian was not afraid to fight him but was simply too “lazy” to begin another training camp ahead of UFC 336. Prates will now face Michael Morales for the interim welterweight title on January 30 in Toronto. He also sent a direct warning to Makhachev, promising to retire the champion when they eventually meet inside the Octagon. The rivalry is getting spicy, but first Prates must get past Morales.

Carlos Prates Calls Islam Makhachev ‘Lazy' For Rejecting UFC 336 Fight

Carlos Prates was initially in discussions for a blockbuster fight against Islam Makhachev for the undisputed UFC welterweight championship. However, the Russian informed the promotion that he would not be ready to compete in January, forcing the UFC to arrange an interim title fight instead.

Speaking at the UFC 336 press conference on Friday, Prates explained why he did not believe Makhachev was deliberately avoiding him. According to the Brazilian, the champion might simply have wanted more time away from training after his recent victory over Ian Garry.

“To be honest, no. I think he's maybe a little bit lazy to make a new fight camp. Maybe he wants to enjoy his holidays after fighting Ian Garry. He felt like, ‘Ah, I need to make a fight camp. I'm a little bit lazy. Let's fight after Ramadan'”, Prates said at the UFC 336 press conference.

Prates also questioned why Makhachev needed more time to prepare for another fight as he believes the champion's disciplined lifestyle should allow him to return to training as he wouldn't need a high preparation time.

The Brazilian has been particularly vocal about the situation, especially after learning that his original opportunity to challenge for the undisputed title would not happen in January.

Makhachev, meanwhile, has already responded to Prates' criticism. The Russian previously reminded the Brazilian of his recent performance against Sean Brady and questioned whether he deserved to be considered a serious challenger.

“I just beat the guy who chased you around the Octagon for five rounds. Shut up and go train. You're not on my level”, Makhachev said.

Carlos Prates Promises To Retire Makhachev After UFC 336

Prates now has big assignment waiting ahead for him. The Brazilian will face Michael Morales in the co-main event of UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto, with the interim welterweight championship on the line.

Prates has already made it clear that winning the interim title will not be the end of his plans. He wants Makhachev next and believes he can bring the champion's MMA career to an end.

“Don't hide,” Prates said. “After I knock Morales out, I'm gonna come back, and I'm gonna retire Islam Makhachev from MMA.”

Though Prates is pumped for a fight Makhachev has yet to agree to a fight anytime soon.