Islam Makhachev’s desired January return is reportedly no longer happening.

Makhachev said that he wanted to fight again in January or before the end of 2026 when speaking immediately after his title defense in August.

Early reports suggested that this is the way talks were progressing, with comments made about Makhachev headlining UFC 336.

However, a new update states that while this was the plan, this option is now off the table.

What more does Islam Makhachev have to do to be considered the greatest fighter of all time? 🤔

Islam Makhachev reportedly out of UFC 336 main event

Earlier this week, Islam Makhachev’s manager provided an update on his return.

Rizvan Magomedov said following rumors of the champion fighting Carlos Prates in January that confirmation of this matchup wasn’t close to being a done deal.

It has now been reported that Makhachev making his return at the first numbered event of the year against any opponent is no longer possible.

Brazilian outlet Ag. Fight posted on October 23 that while the welterweight titleholder was originally scheduled for UFC 336, he’s now out of the main event.

They added in their report on X that new possibilities are now being explored for the January 30 card at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada.

Who should headline UFC 336, the first numbered event of 2027?🇨🇦

The premier promotion announced they are returning to Toronto for UFC 336!

Ariel Helwani added in a post of his own that Makhachev vs Prates is no longer the targeted main event for UFC 336.

He said that while this was the plan, the date no longer works for the current pound-for-pound king, though it’s unclear why at this time.

Helwani previously spoke about this card in January being centered around the welterweight division, with the likes of Michael Morales also targeting this return timeframe.