Carlos Prates Disses Islam Makhachev’s Grappling: “I Don’t Like Watching Fights At All”
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Carlos Prates is not a fan of Islam Makhachev's fighting style and he claims that he doesn't like to watch his fights at all.
If you were expecting Carlos Prates to shower the pound-for-pound king with praise, think again. Fresh off signing a new eight-fight contract and positioning himself as the top contender for the welterweight belt, the Brazilian standout opened up about his potential next opponent. Safe to say, he won't be tuning in to rewatch Islam Makhachev's fight tape for fun.
Sitting down with Ariel Helwani, Prates held nothing back when assessing the reigning champion's style inside the Octagon following UFC 330.
"I think is boring. I don't like watching fights at all... but especially if there's a grappler fighting," Prates admitted. "It's crazy because now I really like training grappling more than striking, but I don't like watching grappling or fighters going to the ground. It's a boring fight. I don't like it."
Striking Sensations Versus Dagestani Control
Prates' candid take highlights a classic clash of combat philosophies. Known for his devastating knockout power and cool-headed composure, the 33-year-old Fighting Nerds representative has surged through the 170-pound division with impressive stoppage victories over elite names like Jack Della Maddalena.
While fans gravitate toward his explosive stand-up battles, Prates simply cannot bring himself to enjoy the heavy, control-oriented grappling that has allowed Makhachev to build a historic winning streak across two weight classes.
What makes the statement ironic is that Prates actively enjoys working on his own mat skills during training camps. Yet, as a spectator, the sight of prolonged ground control drives him away. It is an honest assessment from a pure striker who prefers high-octane exchanges over technical grappling on the canvas.
If the UFC books this showdown, Prates knows exactly what task lies ahead. Facing Makhachev means preparing for relentless takedowns and stifling top pressure, regardless of how entertaining he finds it to watch. However, for Prates, the objective stays the same: keep the action standing and land a game-changing strike before the fight ever hits the mat.
With both fighters expressing interest in throwing down next, fans could soon see this clash of styles play out. If Prates gets his wish, he will turn a championship fight into a stand-up war rather than a five-round grappling showcase.
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