Islam Makhachev commented on Carlos Prates' recent victory with a humorous social media post. The UFC lightweight champion wrote 'Great job, Nutella cake' in response to Prates' performance. The comment appeared to be a playful jab at the Brazilian welterweight contender. Makhachev's reaction came shortly after Prates' knockout victory.
UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev took to social media shortly after Carlos Prates secured a knockout victory, posting a lighthearted message directed at the Brazilian contender. The reigning champion's comment — "Great job, Nutella cake" — read as a playful jab at Prates, poking fun at his Brazilian roots while acknowledging the impressive performance.
Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1 record and holds the welterweight title representing Russia's Eagles MMA. The southpaw champion is ranked pound-for-pound at the top of the sport and brings a well-rounded game to the cage, landing 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate while averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes. His submission threat adds another layer, with 1.1 attempts per 15 minutes keeping opponents honest on the mat.
Prates, nicknamed "The Nightmare," enters the spotlight ranked fifth in the welterweight division. The 32-year-old Brazilian out of Vale Top Team holds a 24-7 record and fights out of a switch stance with a physical frame to match — standing six-foot-one with a 78-inch reach. His striking output drives his game, averaging 3.77 significant strikes per minute, the highest volume between the two men.
Why it matters
- Makhachev personally acknowledging Prates puts the No. 5 contender directly in the champion's line of sight
- Prates' knockout result strengthens his case for a title shot in a deep welterweight division
- The size contrast is notable — Prates holds a seven-inch reach advantage over Makhachev and stands three inches taller
- A switch-stance striker with elite volume could present a stylistic puzzle for even the most complete champion in the division
