Analysis suggests Islam Makhachev faces intriguing challenge against Carlos Prates

A detailed fight analysis highlights that Carlos Prates poses unique threats to Islam Makhachev, particularly with his devastating low kicks that have damaged the lead legs of southpaws like Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena. Prates can compromise an opponent's movement with 4-5 low kicks and potentially knock them out with 10-15. The analyst notes the danger of closing distance against Prates' devastating knee strikes and accurate straight punches. However, Makhachev is himself a high-level striker who effectively disguises takedowns, and opponents often become compromised after enduring a round of his ground control. The key question is whether Prates can maintain his striking effectiveness after being pressured in half guard for four minutes. The UFC must decide whether to have Prates face Shavkat Rakhmonov first to determine a clear number one contender, or save him for the Makhachev fight.