MMA commentator Igor Lazorin has suggested an ideal opponent sequence for Islam Makhachev, proposing Ian Garry first followed by Carlos Prates. Lazorin argues both matchups would generate significant buzz and present real competitive danger for Makhachev. He notes there is existing conflict in both potential pairings, and fans expect rivalries and noise outside the cage. Lazorin suggests Joaquin Buckley doesn't generate the same level of excitement. He invited his audience to share their preferred opponent sequence in the comments.
Russian commentator Igor Lazorin has floated an unconfirmed opponent sequence for welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, suggesting Ian Garry should be next in line before a matchup with Carlos Prates follows.
Lazorin's proposal, which has not been officially confirmed by any promotional or managerial sources, centers on the idea that both pairings carry genuine competitive danger for Makhachev while also delivering the kind of external friction and fan engagement that major title fights demand. He argued that Joaquin Buckley, by comparison, would not generate the same level of excitement.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and currently sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings as champion. The Dagestan native trains out of Eagles MMA and fights out of a southpaw stance. He lands 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate, and his wrestling adds another layer of threat with 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Prates, ranked fifth at welterweight, carries a 24-7-0 record and brings a starkly different profile to the table. The 32-year-old Brazilian known as "The Nightmare" stands six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach and switches stances fluidly. He lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute, giving him one of the higher output rates in the division.
Why it matters
- Makhachev as welterweight champion needs credible, high-profile challengers to maintain divisional momentum
- Prates, ranked fifth, would represent a legitimate title shot and a striking-versus-grappling contrast in styles
- Lazorin's suggestion of existing conflict in both pairings hints at potential personal angles that could elevate promotion
- The sequence remains entirely unconfirmed and reflects one commentator's opinion rather than any negotiation
