Islam Makhachev successfully defended his UFC Welterweight Championship at UFC 330, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision. The judges scored the fight 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in favor of Makhachev. This victory has prompted questions about who will challenge Makhachev next.
Carlos Prates, a top contender, attended the fight event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After the main event, a video emerged showing Prates issuing a challenge to Makhachev. In the video, Prates declared, “I will knock you out, bro. I will knock you out. I will bring that belt to Brazil. The first welterweight champion from Brazil.”
Prates is currently on a three-fight winning streak, with his latest victory being a third-round TKO against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Fight Night in Perth, Australia. However, he suffered his last defeat at the hands of Machado Garry at UFC on ESPN in April.
Ranked No. 1 among welterweights in the Meta UFC Rankings, Prates stands as a prominent prospect for Makhachev’s next opponent. Prates has achieved 19 knockouts in his career and is confident he can do the same to Makhachev. Critics, though, point out Prates’ wrestling skills may not match Makhachev’s, making it challenging for Prates if taken down.
Makhachev, reflecting on his future opponents, acknowledged Carlos Prates as a potential contender. He stated, “Honestly, if you ask me today, Shavkat is not fighting; Prates still fighting, still active, and maybe Prates. Because Morales also is good, but I don’t know last time, I don’t remember when he fight. If you ask who is more deserving, I think Carlos Prates.”
The 34-year-old champion expressed a desire to fight soon due to his age, suggesting a matchup with Prates could happen if officially arranged.
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