Islam Makhachev is reportedly set to headline the first numbered UFC event of 2027

Islam Makhachev is close to booking the second defense of his welterweight title.

The long-time lightweight king picked up 170lb gold by outpointing Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last November.

In August, Islam Makhachev beat Ian Machado Garry over five rounds to defend the belt at UFC 330.

• LATEST NEWS: Carlos Prates tells Islam Makhachev he’s ‘wrestling’s worst nightmare’ in new callout

Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates targeted for UFC 336

Carlos Prates is adamant that he is next in line for a shot at Islam Makhachev’s welterweight strap.

‘The Nightmare’ knocked out Jack Della Maddalena to improve his win streak to three in a row earlier this year.

It appears he’ll be rewarded with a chance to fight for MMA’s greatest prize at UFC 336 on January 30.

MMA reporter Álvaro Colmenero claims Makhachev vs. Prates is expected to headline the card in Toronto, Canada.

“Prates can train hard now because, if the negotiations continue on their course, we’ll see the Brazilian fighting against Islam Makhachev next January 30 at #UFC336 in Toronto,” Colmenero tweeted on Monday.

Islam Makhachev wants to fight before February

Islam Makhachev revealed his return timeline immediately after outpointing Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.

The devout Muslim expressed his desire to fight before Ramadan begins at the start of February 2027.

“We have to fight before Ramadan, 100 per cent,” Makhachev said.

“Bro, January or the end of the year I have to fight.

“I am not, like, twenty-something anymore. I am 34 years old, and I have to fight as soon as possible.

“I am not cutting much weight. I don’t have any big injuries. I just have to maybe double-check my nose, that’s it.”

If everything goes to plan, Makhachev will face Carlos Prates before taking some time away from MMA to focus on his religion.