Carlos Prates Claims He Sees Gaps in Islam Makhachev’s Game

Carlos Prates has offered his assessment of a potential fight against UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, claiming that he noticed openings in the Dagestani fighter’s game during his UFC 330 victory.

Makhachev faced Ian Machado Garry in the main event of UFC 330 earlier this month. Despite Garry’s reputation as a dangerous and creative striker, Makhachev controlled the contest over five rounds and secured a unanimous decision victory to retain the UFC welterweight championship.

Prates, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists. The Brazilian is riding a three-fight winning streak after securing a third-round knockout against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth in May.

Carlos Prates believes Makhachev has weaknesses in his takedown game

During a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Prates was asked about the possibility of sharing the Octagon with Makhachev. The Brazilian explained that he paid close attention to the champion’s takedown attempts and defensive sequences during UFC 330.

Prates suggested that he would be particularly interested in testing how Makhachev reacts when attempting takedowns while striking. He also acknowledged the champion’s well-rounded abilities but remained confident in his own kickboxing.

“Yeah, yeah, especially on the takedowns. Try a takedown when he’s striking, you know, like… I like to see the way I can, like, he defends something, you know, he stops some takedown or things like that… He’s good at kickboxing, bro, you know. Of course, I’m much better. So, I’m excited to test myself against him.”

The comments highlight the confidence Prates has developed during his current run in the UFC. His aggressive striking and knockout power could provide a different challenge for Makhachev if the matchup eventually comes together.

Prates has already warned Makhachev about a potential knockout

Prates has been even more direct when discussing his ambitions in the UFC welterweight division. The Brazilian believes he has the power to stop Makhachev and potentially become the first Brazilian fighter to win the UFC welterweight championship.

Following Makhachev’s victory over Garry at UFC 330, Prates sent a message to the champion through social media. He made it clear that he believes a future meeting would end with him taking the title back to Brazil.

“I will knock you out, bro. I will knock you out. I will bring that belt to Brazil. The first welterweight champ from Brazil.”

The statement underlines Prates’ belief that his striking advantage could create problems for Makhachev in a championship matchup.

Prates has built momentum with three straight wins

Prates enters the conversation as a potential contender after putting together an impressive winning streak. His latest victory came against Jack Della Maddalena, where he secured a third-round knockout at UFC Perth.

The Brazilian’s combination of power, aggression and willingness to exchange strikes has made him an intriguing potential opponent for the champion. However, facing Makhachev would present a significantly different challenge because of the champion’s elite grappling and ability to dictate where fights take place.

Islam Makhachev remains one of UFC’s toughest challenges

Makhachev’s victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 further demonstrated his ability to adapt against different styles. The champion was able to neutralize much of Garry’s offense and maintain control throughout the five-round contest.

For Prates, the key would likely be preventing Makhachev from establishing his preferred grappling exchanges while creating opportunities to use his striking. The Brazilian believes he has already identified areas he could test.

Whether Prates gets the opportunity to challenge Makhachev remains to be seen, but his confidence has made the potential matchup an intriguing possibility in the UFC welterweight division.