Islam Makhachev responded to Carlos Prates' recent victory with a humorous comment calling him "Nutella cake." The lightweight champion's brief reaction was posted with a laughing emoji, suggesting a lighthearted jab at the surging welterweight contender. The post directs readers to additional content on other platforms for those experiencing loading issues. This represents Makhachev's public acknowledgment of Prates' performance. The comment comes amid speculation about potential future opponents for the lightweight champion.
Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev took to social media to acknowledge Carlos Prates following the Brazilian contender's recent victory, offering a playful dig by referring to Prates as "Nutella cake" alongside a laughing emoji.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1 record and stands as the reigning lightweight champion representing Russia and Eagles MMA. The southpaw finisher is one of the sport's most complete fighters, landing 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 58 percent accuracy while also threatening with 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes. The brief but pointed social media post marks his public acknowledgment of a welterweight division in motion around him.
Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare," enters the conversation ranked fifth in the welterweight division with a 24-7 record. The 32-year-old Brazilian out of Vale Top Team is a physical specimen at six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach, and his offensive output backs the hype — he lands 3.77 significant strikes per minute on a switch stance, making him one of the more dangerous strikers in the division.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's public reaction, even in jest, puts a spotlight on Prates at a moment when the welterweight contender is building momentum
- Prates' striking volume and physical advantages in reach could make him a stylistically compelling matchup against elite competition
- Makhachev's comment fuels ongoing speculation about his next opponent, though no fight has been announced or confirmed
