Carlos Prates and Ian Garry have discussed a potential scenario where they would face each other in a title bout in Brazil. According to the plan outlined by Prates, he would defeat Maddalena while Garry defeats Makhachev for the lightweight title, then they would fight each other in Brazil. Prates believes the UFC would make this fight happen if Garry wins the belt, describing it as a rematch scenario. The plan was discussed in a phone call approximately three weeks ago between the two fighters. This appears to be more of an aspirational scenario rather than confirmed matchmaking.
Carlos Prates and Ian Garry have spoken about a potential future title fight between the two of them on Brazilian soil, with the Brazilian contender outlining the scenario in detail.
Prates, known as "The Nightmare," is ranked fifth in the welterweight division and carries a record of 24-7-0. The 32-year-old Brazilian trains out of Vale Top Team and presents a serious striking threat at six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach. He lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy, making him one of the more dangerous stand-up fighters in the division. He is currently booked to face Jack Della Maddalena, and his side of the proposed plan hinges on him winning that bout.
The other half of the equation involves Ian Garry defeating Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title. Makhachev, the reigning champion with a 28-1-0 record, is ranked first pound-for-pound at 34 years old. The Russian southpaw is one of the sport's most complete fighters, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 58 percent.
According to Prates, the two fighters spoke by phone roughly three weeks ago and mapped out the aspirational scenario. Prates described it as a rematch situation, and said he believes the UFC would be willing to make the fight happen in Brazil if Garry were to capture the belt.
Why it matters
- Prates is a top-five welterweight with genuine finishing power, making a future title shot a realistic ambition
- The scenario requires two significant upsets — Prates over Maddalena and Garry over Makhachev — before any matchmaking conversation becomes relevant
- A title fight in Brazil would carry considerable promotional weight given Prates's nationality and fan base there
- For now, this remains an aspirational discussion between two fighters, not a confirmed or negotiated booking
