Matt Brown Defends Islam Makhachev, Criticizes UFC Over Interim Title
Matt Brown defended Islam Makhachev's right to delay his return while criticizing the UFC's decision to book an interim title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales.
· VILLAND PICK editorial
Islam Makhachev opted not to fight Carlos Prates at UFC 336, leading the UFC to introduce an interim championship fight between Prates and Michael Morales in January. Makhachev previously defended his belt in August with a unanimous decision victory over Ian Machado Garry, but UFC CEO Dana White maintained that the division needed to keep moving in the champion's absence.
Speaking on an episode of "The Fighter vs.," UFC veteran Matt Brown defended Makhachev's choice to be selective with his schedule. Brown stated that Makhachev has earned the right to manage his timeline due to his accomplishments inside the Octagon, noting that elite fighters naturally become more discerning about their matchups.
However, Brown pushed back strongly against the promotion's decision to create an interim belt while Makhachev remains the undisputed champion. Brown argued that the interim title will not mean anything and called for the UFC to establish clear, consistent standards dictating exactly when interim titles should be introduced.
Sources
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