Overview of The Daniel Cormier Show
Daniel Cormier discusses Carlos Prates’ public frustration that welterweight champion Islam Makhachev is not fighting him in January 2027. Cormier understands why Prates wants the matchup, but says a champion may need time to recover after a difficult defense. He urges Prates to focus first on his scheduled fight with Michael Morales.
Why Prates Is Calling Out Makhachev
Prates and his manager say they are disappointed that Makhachev did not accept a January fight. Prates suggests the champion should want to face the top contender and says he would make a statement by beating him. His manager says he does not believe Makhachev is afraid, but thinks something changed the champion’s plans.
Cormier agrees that Makhachev is not afraid of Prates. He sees the callout as a way for Prates to keep the champion’s attention and perhaps encourage a title fight.
Cormier’s View of a Champion’s Schedule
Cormier says titleholders often fight less frequently because each defense carries a lot at stake. He points to champions’ recent fight schedules as examples of how activity can slow after they win a belt.
He also says Makhachev’s August fight against Ian Machado Garry was especially demanding. Garry’s size and reach made the matchup difficult, and Cormier believes a champion may need extra time to recover after a hard fight. He adds that observing Ramadan can make training and recovery more challenging.
Drawing on his own experience, Cormier recalls needing time off after a difficult title defense against Alexander Gustafsson. He says that kind of recovery is part of a champion’s perspective, rather than evidence of fear.
Prates’ Immediate Challenge
Cormier’s main advice to Prates is to concentrate on Michael Morales, whom he calls an extremely dangerous opponent. Prates needs to win that fight to move closer to Makhachev and a championship opportunity.
Cormier acknowledges that persistent callouts can help create pressure, but says Prates’ path to the title runs through Morales first.