Published 3 days ago
Prates Issues Direct Challenge to Makhachev: A Stylistic Showdown in UFC
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Carlos Prates, undefeated by KO in his last three fights, has renewed his challenge to Islam Makhachev, the UFC’s undefeated champion since 2022, via a humorous social media video. Their potential matchup would pit two distinct styles against each other: Prates’ aggressive striking versus Makhachev’s sambo and grappling.
To remember:
- Carlos Prates renews his challenge to Islam Makhachev via a quirky social media video.
- The Brazilian, undefeated in his last three fights by KO, holds the No. 2 spot in the UFC welterweight rankings.
- Makhachev, undefeated since 2022, faces an opposing style: aggressive striking vs. sambo/grappling.
- A fight between these two UFC champions would be the first since 2018.
- Prates, with 22 stoppage wins out of 24, relies on his 92% KO rate to challenge Makhachev.
A Challenge as Unexpected as It Is Spectacular
Carlos Prates has chosen a decidedly original approach to renew his challenge to Islam Makhachev. In a video posted on social media, the Brazilian, glass in hand at a bar, issued his call with a touch of humor. A method that contrasts sharply with the seriousness of the Russian champion, who has been undefeated since 2022 and boasts 18 wins by KO or submission.
If accepted, this challenge promises a clash of radically opposing styles. Prates, a specialist in aggressive striking, has an impressive record with 22 stoppage wins out of 24 fights. His 92% KO rate makes him one of the most feared fighters in the division.
Two Martial Philosophies on a Collision Course
Opposite him, Makhachev embodies an entirely different approach. A master of sambo and grappling, he has built his reign on submissions and a solid defense. With 62% of his wins by submission, he represents the antithesis of Prates’ style. Their confrontation, if it materializes, would be the first between two active UFC champions since 2018—an event that promises to be historic.
This clash of styles raises a crucial question: will the power of striking or the technique of sambo prevail? MMA fans won’t have to wait long to find out, provided the UFC gives the green light to this long-awaited fight.
Between humor and seriousness, this challenge between Prates and Makhachev could very well redefine the standards of MMA. A fight where the Brazilian’s explosive power meets the Russian’s technical precision. Stay tuned!

