Islam Makhachev has finally spoken out about the surprise creation of an interim welterweight championship in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
The 170lbs champion of the organization was initially preparing for a bout against fan favorite Carlos Prates in Toronto on January 30.
However, mixed martial arts supporters were surprised last Saturday when officials revealed that Prates would face Michael Morales for the interim welterweight belt at UFC 333.
The decision to introduce an interim championship seemed puzzling because Makhachev had stated he wanted to step back into the cage prior to Ramadan.
On Sunday, the top pound-for-pound fighter indicated he declined a matchup against Prates so a legitimate challenger could surface for his championship.
He stated to Pound4padel.ru, Prates and Morales will fight, determine who a true worthy contender, and I will fight the winner, adding that they will fight among themselves.
He continued, They offered me a fight with Prates, who recently lost to Ian Machado Garry, who I beat.
He added, If I beat him, Morales would already be next in line, who is not fighting and waiting for a title shot.
He concluded, Just let them fight and we will figure out who is the real challenger.
Makhachev made these remarks shortly after Ultimate Fighting Championship President and Chief Executive Officer Dana White criticized the Russian fighter for delaying the weight class.
During the post-fight press conference for UFC 333, the executive stated, On average, Islam fights like once a year.
He added, He was slated for January and then said, I do not want to fight until after Ramadan.
He further stated, You cannot hold up divisions like this, noting that you have to keep moving and this fight makes sense.
When questioned if Makhachev provided the organization with an explanation for altering his plans, White answered, No, he did not, and added, No reason at all.
Makhachev last competed inside the Octagon in August, successfully defending his welterweight belt by unanimous decision against Ian Machado Garry in Philadelphia.
Following that record-breaking win, which gave him the longest winning streak in the history of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Makhachev expressed a desire for a quick turnaround despite historical lengthy pauses between bouts.
During the post-fight press conference for UFC 330, he stated, Bro we have to fight before Ramadan, 100 per cent.
He also mentioned, January, end of the year, we have to fight.
He further explained, I am 34 years old, I have to fight as soon as possible, noting he does not cut heavy weight or carry major injuries.
