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Why Islam Makhachev turning down UFC 336 makes perfect sense to one ex-champ

The welterweight championship picture underwent a major shift when Carlos Prates and Michael Morales were booked to square off for the interim belt. The interim championship matchup serves as the co-main feature for the organization's return to Toronto on January 30.

This development materialized after Islam Makhachev declined a scheduled bout against Prates at the upcoming event. Javier Mendez, who trains the reigning titleholder, pushed back against claims that the clash with Prates had ever been officially finalized.

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