A discussion is underway about the ideal next opponent for Islam Makhachev, with Ian Garry and Carlos Prates emerging as the top candidates. The author suggests Garry should come first, followed by Prates, citing both the existing conflict between the fighters and the competitive sporting challenge they would present. Both matchups are considered dangerous for Makhachev while also generating significant buzz and anticipation among fans. The post notes that Vicente Luque (referred to as Moralés) does not generate the same level of excitement. Fans are being asked to share their preferences for Makhachev's upcoming fights.
A debate has emerged online over who Islam Makhachev should fight next at welterweight, with Ian Garry and Carlos Prates identified as the two most compelling candidates for the reigning champion's upcoming bouts.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1 record and sits atop the welterweight division as champion, currently ranked as the number-one pound-for-pound fighter in the sport. The Russian southpaw, who trains out of Eagles MMA, is one of the most complete fighters in the world, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing significant strikes at a 58 percent accuracy clip — a rare combination of elite grappling and sharp striking.
Prates, known as "The Nightmare," enters the conversation ranked fifth at welterweight with a 24-7 record. The 32-year-old Brazilian out of Vale Top Team is a switch-stance striker who lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute — more volume than Makhachev himself — and stands six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach. That physical profile and punishing output make him a legitimately dangerous stylistic test.
The discussion, circulating on social media, proposes that Garry should receive the first shot given an existing conflict between him and Makhachev, with Prates to follow as the harder competitive challenge. Both matchups are viewed as capable of generating significant fan interest, which the conversation contrasts against a potential fight with Vicente Luque, described as a lesser draw.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's next defense carries major divisional implications at welterweight
- Prates ranks fifth in the division and brings elite striking volume as a stylistic counter to Makhachev's grappling
- The Garry matchup carries an interpersonal dimension that adds promotional appeal beyond sport alone
- No fight has been officially announced, and the discussion remains fan and media speculation at this stage
