A Russian MMA commentator has proposed that Islam Makhachev should face Ian Garry first, then Carlos Prates, rather than other potential contenders. The reasoning emphasizes that both matchups would generate hype outside the cage while also being competitive and dangerous for Makhachev. The post suggests that Shavkat Rakhmonov does not create the same level of buzz. Fans are invited to share their preferred opponent order in the comments. No official UFC announcement or timeline is referenced in the post.
A Russian MMA commentator has stirred debate among fans by laying out a preferred opponent sequence for welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, arguing he should fight Ian Garry next before turning his attention to Carlos Prates.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and is currently the welterweight champion as well as the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the sport. Fighting out of Russia under the Eagles MMA banner, the southpaw is a relentless grappler who averages 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes with a striking accuracy of 58 percent. He is widely regarded as the division's most complete threat.
The commentator's argument centers on hype as much as competition. The suggestion is that both Garry and Prates carry the kind of personality and profile that generate mainstream interest beyond fight week, making them more attractive options than other contenders. Shavkat Rakhmonov, despite being ranked third at welterweight, was specifically named as someone who does not produce the same promotional buzz, even though the unbeaten Kazakh is a genuinely dangerous stylistic test.
Prates, ranked fifth in the welterweight division at 32 years old, holds a 24-7-0 record and fights out of Vale Top Team. The Brazilian switch-hitter is one of the division's most active strikers, averaging 3.77 significant strikes per minute with a 78-inch reach, and carries a finishing pedigree that makes him a credible threat to anyone.
Rakhmonov, 31, enters any conversation undefeated at 19-0-0 and stands six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach. The Kazakh finisher lands with 60 percent striking accuracy while also adding 1.4 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes, a style that blends genuine danger from every range.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's next title defense has no official opponent, leaving room for public and media debate to shape expectations.
- Prates and Rakhmonov both represent legitimate top-five threats, making the sequencing decision meaningful for divisional rankings.
- The commentator's emphasis on promotional value highlights the ongoing tension between competitive merit and commercial appeal in matchmaking.
