A discussion has emerged about who should be Islam Makhachev's next opponent, with Ian Garry and Carlos Prates being the primary candidates. The post author suggests Garry first, followed by Prates, noting that both matchups would create conflict and generate significant buzz outside the cage. These fights are described as competitively viable and dangerous for Makhachev. The author notes that audiences want to see rivalry and pre-fight hype, which both potential opponents would deliver. Vicente Luque (Morales) is mentioned as not generating the same level of excitement. The post invites reader input on the preferred opponent order.
A debate has emerged among MMA fans and analysts over who Islam Makhachev should face next at welterweight, with Ian Garry and Carlos Prates surfacing as the two most compelling candidates.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 professional record and currently reigns as welterweight champion, sitting atop the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian southpaw out of Eagles MMA is a technically complete fighter, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing significant strikes at a 58 percent accuracy rate. At five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach, he controls range efficiently and poses a constant threat on the ground with 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare," holds the number five ranking at 170 pounds and carries a 24-7-0 record. The 32-year-old Brazilian switches stances fluidly and brings a high-volume striking attack, landing 3.77 significant strikes per minute. At six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach, he would hold a notable size and length advantage over the champion.
The discussion, which has gained traction across MMA communities, proposes Garry first and Prates second, with the argument centering on entertainment value and pre-fight build-up rather than pure rankings logic. The suggestion is that both opponents would bring genuine noise outside the cage alongside competitive danger inside it. Vicente Luque, also floated as a possibility, is viewed in this conversation as a less commercially exciting option by comparison.
Why it matters
- Makhachev holds the top pound-for-pound spot, making his next title defense a marquee event regardless of opponent
- Prates ranks fifth at welterweight and brings a legitimate size and reach edge that creates a genuine stylistic puzzle
- Both proposed matchups are framed as carrying real upset potential, adding stakes beyond divisional housekeeping
- The debate reflects broader fan appetite for high-drama build-ups, not just merit-based contender sequencing
