Islam Makhachev reacted to Carlos Prates' recent knockout victory with a humorous social media comment. Makhachev posted "Great work, Nutella cake" with a laughing emoji, apparently referencing Prates in a playful manner. The post notes that for those experiencing loading issues, the content is duplicated on alternative platforms including "Igor Kak Dela in MAX" and "Igor Kak Dela in VK." The brief message suggests Makhachev is monitoring Prates' performances, likely as a potential future opponent. The tone appears lighthearted rather than hostile.
Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev took a moment to weigh in on Carlos Prates following the Brazilian's recent knockout victory, posting a brief but pointed social media message that read "Great work, Nutella cake" accompanied by a laughing emoji. The comment, which appeared on Makhachev's channels, was lighthearted in tone but signaled that the reigning champion is keeping a close eye on one of his division's most dangerous contenders.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and currently sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian, who trains out of Eagles MMA, is a southpaw standing five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach. He is one of the sport's most efficient wrestlers, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes, and complements that grappling with striking accuracy of 58 percent.
Prates, 32, holds a 24-7-0 record and is ranked fifth in the welterweight division. The Brazilian, who fights out of Vale Top Team, brings a physically imposing frame at six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach. Known as "The Nightmare," Prates is a switch-stance striker who lands a substantial 3.77 significant strikes per minute, giving him one of the higher output rates among welterweight contenders.
Why it matters
- Makhachev publicly acknowledging Prates raises the possibility of a future title fight at 170 pounds.
- Prates, ranked fifth, is several wins away from a title shot but a hot finish streak could accelerate his climb.
- The stylistic contrast is stark: Makhachev's elite wrestling and submission threats against Prates' high-volume striking and significant length advantage.
