Ian Garry and Carlos Prates have discussed a plan for a future title fight between them. According to the plan, Prates would defeat Madalena while Garry beats Makhachev, then they would face each other in Brazil. Prates believes the UFC would make the fight happen, and if Garry wins the belt, it would be a rematch between them. The post notes skepticism about whether this plan will actually come to fruition.
Ian Garry and Carlos Prates have mapped out an ambitious road to a title fight between them, with both men apparently aligned on a two-step plan that would culminate in a welterweight championship bout on Brazilian soil.
The framework, as discussed between the two fighters, hinges on Prates defeating his upcoming opponent Madalena while Garry upsets reigning welterweight champion Islam Makhachev. Should both come through, they envision meeting each other in Brazil — with the belt potentially on the line if Garry captures it from Makhachev.
Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare," is currently ranked fifth in the welterweight division. The 32-year-old Brazilian out of Vale Top Team carries a 24-7 record and has established himself as one of the division's most dangerous strikers, landing 3.77 significant strikes per minute with a reach of 78 inches. He fights out of a switch stance and relies almost entirely on his striking, averaging just 0.21 takedowns per 15 minutes with no submission attempts to speak of.
Makhachev, the man Garry would need to dethrone, is a different proposition entirely. The 34-year-old Russian champion holds a 28-1 record and currently sits atop the pound-for-pound rankings. Despite operating as a southpaw at five-foot-ten, Makhachev is as complete as fighters come — posting a 58 percent striking accuracy while also averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes. He has become the division's measuring stick for a reason.
Prates expressed confidence that the UFC would be willing to sanction the matchup once both fighters had delivered on their respective tasks.
Why it matters
- A Garry victory over Makhachev would instantly elevate any opponent he faces to championship status
- Prates at fifth in the division is already positioned for a title shot with a win over Madalena
- The stylistic contrast between Prates's high-volume striking and whatever Garry brings could make for a compelling title fight scenario
- Skepticism remains over whether a plan discussed between two fighters will survive contact with results and UFC matchmaking
