A discussion is proposed about the ideal next opponent for Islam Makhachev. The author suggests Ian Garry first, followed by Carlos Prates, citing that both matchups would generate significant noise and conflict outside the cage while being competitive and dangerous for Makhachev. The post notes that fans expect rivalry and hype beyond just the fight itself, which both potential opponents would provide. Shavkat Rakhmonov is mentioned as less likely to generate the same level of media attention. The post solicits reader opinions on the preferred opponent sequence.
A debate has emerged online over who Islam Makhachev should fight next in the welterweight division, with Ian Garry and Carlos Prates both floated as ideal opponents — in that order — ahead of the more frequently discussed Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Makhachev, now 28-1 and the reigning welterweight champion, moved up from lightweight and sits atop the pound-for-pound rankings at age 34. The Russian, who trains out of Eagles MMA, is a relentless grappler averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes with a striking accuracy of 58 percent. His combination of wrestling and submission threat — 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes — makes him a nightmare for opponents regardless of style.
Carlos Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare," would bring a genuinely dangerous striking dynamic to the matchup. The 32-year-old Brazilian holds a 24-7 record and ranks fifth in the welterweight division. Fighting out of Vale Top Team, Prates works from a switch stance, stands six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach, and leads the division in striking volume at 3.77 significant strikes landed per minute. His near-total absence of takedown and submission offense — just 0.21 takedowns per 15 minutes and zero submission attempts — makes the stylistic contrast with Makhachev stark.
Rakhmonov, the undefeated Kazakh known as "Nomad," is ranked third at welterweight with a perfect 19-0 record. At six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, the 31-year-old hits with real precision — 60 percent striking accuracy — and is a genuine submission threat at 1.2 attempts per 15 minutes. The argument made, however, is that Rakhmonov generates less media buzz than either Garry or Prates, making him a less commercially appealing option in the near term.
Why it matters
- Makhachev is the pound-for-pound No. 1, so his next opponent carries outsized divisional significance
- Prates offers a high-volume striking contrast to Makhachev's grappling-heavy style
- Rakhmonov remains the most credentialed contender on paper but is seen as a quieter build-up fight commercially
