Islam Makhachev was reportedly impressed by Carlos Prates’ recent performance at UFC Perth, where the Brazilian swiftly defeated former champion Jack Della Maddalena. Prates is currently on a three-fight winning streak, having finished all of his last three opponents, including two former UFC champions, via knockout.
The Dagestani fighter, recognizing the significant buzz surrounding Prates due to his exceptional striking skills, considers the Brazilian to be the most interesting potential opponent for him at this time. Makhachev, who is anticipated to defend his welterweight title in August against Ian Machado Garry, mentioned that his next opponent has not yet been finalized, and no contract has been signed. This leaves various fighters, including Michael Morales, Garry, Kamaru Usman, and Prates, still in contention.
Speaking to Red Corner MMA, Makhachev stated, “There have been many rumors about me fighting Ian Garry next. I haven’t spoken with any UFC officials about this fight, so I can’t say for sure who the next contender is… I think Prates has got the hype right now… A fight with him would be the most interesting.”
He further elaborated on the potential matchups, listing, “I’ve got three or four possible matchups. Kamaru Usman is also up there. Ian Garry, Morales, and Prates. Shavkat might be number five. They’re all expecting a title shot.”
English Translation:
Islam Makhachev Names Carlos Prates as Most Intriguing Next Fight
Islam Makhachev was impressed by Carlos Prates’ performance at UFC Perth, where the Brazilian finished former champion Jack Della Maddalena with ease. Prates is currently riding a three-fight win streak and has knocked out all of his last 3 opponents, 2 of whom are former UFC champs. Given the hype that Prates has been building by showcasing his striking masterclass, Makhachev believes the former is the most interesting matchup for him at the moment.
Islam Makhachev is expected to make the first defense of his welterweight title in August against Ian Machado Garry. However, the pound-for-pound king is open to fighting Prates right away, stating to Red Corner MMA, “There have been a lot of rumors about me fighting Ian Garry next. I haven’t spoken with any UFC officials about this fight, so I can’t say for sure who the next contender is… I think Prates has got the hype right now… A fight with him would be the most interesting.”
The Dagestani wrestling maestro also added in the same interview that his next opponent hasn’t been finalized, and he hasn’t signed a contract yet, meaning names like Michael Morales, Garry, and Kamaru Usman, Prates, among others, are still in the mix. He commented, “I’ve got 3–4 other possible matchups. Kamaru Usman is up there, Ian Garry, Morales, and Prates. That’s four of them, plus Shavkat might be number five. They’re all expecting a title shot.”