A discussion is underway about the ideal next opponent for Islam Makhachev, with the author suggesting Ian Garry first, followed by Carlos Prates. The reasoning is that both matchups would generate significant buzz and present competitive, dangerous challenges for Makhachev. The author notes that Garry and Prates both bring existing conflicts and fan anticipation for rivalries beyond just the cage. In contrast, the post suggests that Beneil Dariush (Moralesh) doesn't generate the same level of excitement. The post invites fans to share their preferred matchup order in the comments.
Fan debate over who Islam Makhachev should fight next has picked up momentum online, with one widely circulated discussion making the case for a specific two-fight sequence involving Ian Garry and Carlos Prates.
Makhachev, 34, now holds the welterweight title after moving up from lightweight, carrying a 28-1-0 record into his reign. The Russian southpaw out of Eagles MMA is the pound-for-pound number-one fighter in the sport, and his numbers reflect his dominance — a 58 percent striking accuracy and 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes make him one of the most complete fighters in any division.
Carlos Prates, the Brazilian striker nicknamed "The Nightmare," ranks fifth at welterweight and brings a style that stands in sharp contrast to Makhachev's grappling-first approach. At 32, the 24-7-0 switch-hitter out of Vale Top Team lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute with 55 percent accuracy and has a 78-inch reach — a physical tool that could create real problems at range. He has attempted zero submissions and averages just 0.21 takedowns per 15 minutes, meaning any fight with Makhachev would almost certainly be decided on those stylistic terms.
Beneil Dariush also surfaces in the conversation but is framed in the discussion as the less compelling option. The 37-year-old American southpaw out of Kings MMA sits eighth in the lightweight rankings with a 23-8-1 record. He lands 3.78 significant strikes per minute and averages 2.11 takedowns per 15 minutes, but the post suggests his candidacy lacks the buzz that surrounds the other names.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's pound-for-pound status means his next opponent carries significant promotional weight
- Prates offers a rare pure striking challenge that could expose or validate Makhachev's defensive striking at welterweight
- The discussion reflects broader fan appetite for matchups built around pre-existing tension and stylistic intrigue, not just rankings position
