UFC
Published 59 days ago
After his victory at UFC 330, Makhachev names Prates as his next opponent, sidelining Morales and Rakhmonov.
Hidden h2 tag if not homepage
After defending his light heavyweight title at UFC 330 against Ian Garry, Islam Makhachev made it clear who his preferred next opponent is: Carlos Prates. The Russian champion justifies this choice by citing the Brazilian’s consistency and recent performances, sidelining Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov.
To remember:
- Islam Makhachev retains his UFC light heavyweight title by defeating Ian Garry at UFC 330.
- Carlos Prates, undefeated in 15 fights, is named the next legitimate contender by Makhachev.
- Prates recently dominated Belal Muhammad and Ian Garry, proving his ability to compete with the elite.
- Makhachev prioritizes recent activity among contenders, sidelining Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov.
At UFC 330, Islam Makhachev once again demonstrated his dominance by retaining his light heavyweight title against Ian Garry via unanimous decision. But beyond the win, it was the announcement of his next challenger that grabbed attention. The Russian champion has indeed named Carlos Prates as his priority opponent, a choice based on specific criteria: consistency, recent activity, and performances against the division’s elite.
A Brazilian on the Rise
Undefeated in 15 fights, Prates has established himself as one of the most prominent athletes in the division. His recent decision wins over Belal Muhammad and Ian Garry (prior to Garry’s bout with Makhachev) have made an impression. Makhachev himself praised Prates’ ability to compete with the best, stating that he "deserves this opportunity more than anyone." A recognition that contrasts with the inactivity of other contenders.Morales and Rakhmonov in the Shadows
While Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov are among the most frequently mentioned contenders, their current situations do not work in their favor. Morales, despite his talent, has not fought in nearly a year, while Rakhmonov has been absent from the Octagon since his loss to Garry in 2025. Makhachev, ever pragmatic, justified his choice by emphasizing recent activity as the primary criterion. A logic that could reshape the division’s hierarchy.What’s Next?
If the Makhachev vs. Prates fight materializes, fans could witness a technical and strategic showdown, where the Brazilian’s precision would be tested against the Russian champion’s power. A matchup that, if it happens, could mark a turning point in the light heavyweight division.Makhachev’s choice of Prates seems logical on paper, but the light heavyweight division always holds surprises. One thing is certain: activity and current form will now be decisive arguments for title contention.
Editor's Opinion
By Celtic
Carlos Prates as the ideal challenger? You’ve got to admit, there’s something appealing about this Brazilian who keeps winning without ever losing. Makhachev went with logic, not nostalgia, and it makes sense. In the end, it’s all good for the fans: spectacle and unpredictability on the horizon. Respect to the warriors, always.