Prates draws Mumbai crowds before interim welterweight title clash with unbeaten Morales at UFC 336

Carlos Prates was mobbed by fans at a Mumbai airport and at public appearances across the city during a promotional visit to India, with the Brazilian contender set to challenge unbeaten Michael Morales for the interim UFC welterweight title at UFC 336 on 30 January 2027 in Toronto.

Videos shared on social media captured supporters gathering around Prates for photos and autographs at the airport, while crowds also turned out for his scheduled public appearances in the city. The 33-year-old Fighting Nerds representative has since travelled to Abu Dhabi. Prates documented the trip himself, posting photos and videos that included sampling local cuisine. “Thank you India, what a great country!” he wrote in the caption accompanying the posts.

Prates carries a record of 24-7 into the bout, having built momentum inside the UFC through a series of finishes. His opponent Morales arrives undefeated at 19-0, with all seven of his UFC appearances ending in victory, making him one of the most highly regarded unbeaten prospects in the welterweight division.

The stakes extend beyond the interim belt. The winner of the Toronto main event is expected to face undisputed welterweight champion Islam Makhachev in a title unification bout, meaning the outcome on 30 January could set the course for the division’s immediate future.