A discussion is being raised about who should be Islam Makhachev's next opponent. The post suggests Ian Garry first, followed by Carlos Prates as the ideal sequence. Both matchups are described as creating noise and presenting genuine competitive danger for Makhachev. The author believes there is existing conflict and that fans want to see rivalry and hype outside the cage, which both potential opponents would deliver. In contrast, Shavkat Rakhmonov is mentioned as not generating the same level of buzz. The post invites readers to share their opinions on the preferred order of opponents. The author's personal preference is clearly stated as Garry first, then Prates second.
A discussion circulating online has sparked debate over who welterweight champion Islam Makhachev should fight next, with one prominent view arguing that Ian Garry should come first, followed by Carlos Prates.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1 record and sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian southpaw, who trains with Eagles MMA, has built his dominance largely through elite grappling, averaging 3.2 takedown attempts per 15 minutes with a striking accuracy of 58 percent. He is widely regarded as the best fighter on the planet.
Prates, ranked fifth at welterweight, carries a 24-7 record and has drawn attention as a legitimate stylistic threat. The Brazilian switch-hitter, known as "The Nightmare," lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute — the highest output among the fighters mentioned — and operates with a 78-inch reach out of Vale Top Team. At 32, he represents a dangerous, high-volume striking opponent for the champion.
The discussion pointedly sets aside Shavkat Rakhmonov, the undefeated Kazakh contender ranked third in the division. Despite Rakhmonov's perfect 19-0 record and an imposing physical frame — six feet four inches tall with a 77-inch reach and 60 percent striking accuracy — the argument made is that he simply does not generate the same level of public interest or pre-fight narrative as Garry or Prates.
Why it matters
- Makhachev holds the welterweight title and the number-one pound-for-pound ranking, meaning any next opponent carries enormous divisional weight
- Prates ranks fifth but posts the highest striking volume of the group, posing a genuine stylistic challenge to Makhachev's grappling-heavy game
- Rakhmonov sits third in the division and is undefeated, yet is viewed by some fans as lacking the rivalry heat needed to drive a marquee event
