A discussion post asks fans to weigh in on the ideal next opponent for Islam Makhachev, presenting two primary options. The author suggests Ian Machado Garry should come first, followed by Carlos Prates, citing the existing conflict and competitive appeal of both matchups. Both fights are described as dangerous for Makhachev but capable of generating significant buzz both inside and outside the cage. The post notes that fans want to see rivalry and excitement beyond just the fight itself, which both potential opponents would deliver. By contrast, the author suggests that Sean O'Malley does not generate the same level of hype.
A fan discussion circulating online has put welterweight champion Islam Makhachev at the center of a debate, asking followers to vote on who should be next in line to challenge him — Ireland's Ian Machado Garry or Brazilian striker Carlos Prates.
The post's author frames both fights as genuinely dangerous for Makhachev while also carrying the kind of narrative weight that extends beyond the octagon itself. The author specifically suggests Garry should come first given an existing conflict between the two, followed by Prates, and argues that neither opponent generates the same level of flat, hype-free buzz that a matchup with Sean O'Malley would.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and currently sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian southpaw out of Eagles MMA is a relentless grappler, averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes, while also posting a striking accuracy of 58 percent.
Garry, ranked number one in the division at just 28 years old, carries a 17-1-0 record and presents a sharp offensive contrast to the champion. The Irishman known as "The Future" stands six-foot-three with a 74-inch reach and lands 4.78 significant strikes per minute — one of the higher output rates in the division.
Prates, ranked fifth at 32, brings a different kind of threat. The Brazilian nicknamed "The Nightmare" owns a 24-7-0 record and boasts a 78-inch reach from a switch stance, landing 3.77 significant strikes per minute with 55 percent accuracy. His style leans almost entirely on striking, averaging just 0.21 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Garry's number-one ranking makes him a logical mandatory challenger, and a reported personal conflict adds extra stakes
- Prates offers a high-volume striking threat from a switch stance that would test Makhachev's defensive versatility
- Both options contrast sharply with Makhachev's wrestling-heavy game plan, setting up compelling stylistic matchups
