What happened: UFC CEO Dana White said lightweight champion Islam Makhachev verbally agreed to fight at UFC 336 before reversing course. White noted that the promotion's top stars have earned enough money to become selective about their competition dates. He added that while three title defenses a year is unrealistic, champions are expected to compete at least twice annually.

Why it matters: Makhachev's withdrawal prompted the promotion to pivot, with Carlos Prates and Michael Morales headlining UFC 336 instead. The public remarks underscore growing promotional frustration over titleholder activity and scheduling delays.

What to watch: The UFC will look to the UFC 336 headliner to establish the next challenger for Makhachev's lightweight belt.