Islam Makhachev May Target Carlos Prates Over Ian Garry, Says Prates

Brazilian fighter Carlos Prates, fresh off a third‑round knockout of Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, told Daniel Cormier that Islam Makhachev appears to view him as a less challenging opponent than Irish contender Ian Garry. Prates quoted Makhachev as naming him among possible welterweight challengers alongside Michael Morales, Shavkat Rakhmonov and Kamaru Usman, though the Dagestani champion has not confirmed his next defense. In the interview, Prates highlighted his own takedown defense and past encounters with fighters such as Leon Edwards and JDM, arguing that Makhachev’s assessment could steer future matchmaking.