Ian Machado Garry believes Carlos Prates can beat Islam Makhachev
The former UFC title challenger sees a dangerous matchup for both fighters but favors the Brazilian to pull off the upset.
Islam Makhachev has looked almost unstoppable. In August, the UFC two-division champion defeated Ian Machado Garry in his first title defense at welterweight to improve his winning streak to 17 fights, the promotion's record. Despite Makhachev's credentials and recent performances, Garry thinks Carlos Prates could be the one to finally beat the Russian fighter.
Ian Machado Garry Sees Dangerous Matchup for Carlos Prates, Islam Makhachev
It is fair to acknowledge that Garry has a say in the matter when analyzing a possible matchup between Prates and Makhachev. In a little over a year, Garry has faced both fighters, defeating the Brazilian and suffering a loss to the Russian, all by unanimous decision.
Both fighters have very different fighting styles. While Prates is a vicious striker with a strong Muay Thai background, Makhachev is arguably one of the most accomplished grapplers in the UFC. In the end, a fight between both welterweights would come down to a clash of styles. For Garry, that means it would be a dangerous matchup for either man.
"It's a dangerous fight for both of them," Garry told Eze Talks Sports. "I think the difference between Carlos and me is that he's much more aggressive, but at the same time, I don't think he's as talented when it comes to grappling defense. It's a very, very interesting fight."
Ian Machado Garry Picks Carlos Prates Over Islam Makhachev
Since Prates' last Octagon appearance, when he defeated Jack Della Maddalena by TKO, there has been speculation about when the No. 1 welterweight contender will challenge Makhachev. Although the Brazilian does not have a date or opponent set for his return, Garry already has a prediction if the matchup happens.
"Can Carlos land that punch to knock Makhachev out?" Garry said. "Or can Islam take him down and submit him? It's difficult. Right now, I feel like my heart is telling me that Carlos can get the job done. Then we do the rematch again."
Makhachev is coming off his first welterweight title defense and will now await his next challenger. Prates, meanwhile, defeated Maddalena in his most recent appearance and remains one of the top contenders in the division.
