A media personality has proposed that Islam Makhachev's ideal next opponents should be Ian Garry followed by Carlos Prates, citing the existing conflict and competitive sporting challenge both would present. The post argues that both matchups would be dangerous for Makhachev while generating significant interest and buzz outside the cage, which audiences expect. The author suggests that Arman Moralev does not generate the same level of excitement. The post is soliciting opinions from followers about the best opponent sequence for Makhachev.
A media personality has put forward a proposed fight sequence for welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, suggesting Ian Garry and then Carlos Prates as his ideal next opponents, and asking followers to weigh in on the idea.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and currently sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian fighter out of Eagles MMA is a southpaw standing five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach. His game is built on a blend of volume striking — 2.63 significant strikes landed per minute at 58 percent accuracy — and persistent grappling, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes along with 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Carlos Prates, ranked fifth in the welterweight division, brings a contrasting profile. The 32-year-old Brazilian, nicknamed "The Nightmare," carries a 24-7-0 record and trains out of Vale Top Team. At six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach, the switch-stance striker lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute and poses a clear physical size and reach advantage over the champion. His near-zero takedown and submission output signals a pure stand-up approach.
The opinion piece argues that a Garry fight first would carry an added layer of tension given the existing friction between the two, before escalating to the striking challenge that Prates represents. The post also contends that Arman Tsarukyan does not generate comparable levels of public interest, a point the author uses to steer the conversation away from that option.
Why it matters
- Makhachev defending against a welterweight-sized striker in Prates would be a significant stylistic test
- Prates holds an eight-inch reach advantage over the champion
- The proposed Garry bout carries built-in narrative heat beyond the sporting competition
- The discussion reflects wider debate about how the welterweight title picture should unfold
