“Scary Power”: Dan Hardy Picks Carlos Prates Over Michael Morales as the Bigger Threat to Islam Makhachev

Makhachev faced Ian Garry in his first welterweight championship defense last Saturday in Philadelphia. With the victory, he ended Anderson Silva's 16-fight unbeaten streak, becoming the 17th. 

While he won a unanimous decision at UFC 330, it was not Makhachev’s best performance and has raised concerns about his future in a division 15-lbs heavier than his natural weight. And Dan Hardy has a name for Makhachev’s next challenge. 

Dan Hardy picks Carlos Prates over Michael Morales for Islam Makhachev

Two of the division's most deserving contenders watched the bout from inside the arena. When asked who could give Makhachev a tougher battle, Hardy did not hesitate. 

During the Submission Radio interview, Hardy said, “The next two guys look like it could be Morales or Carlos Prates. Who gives Islam Makhachev the harder fight? Probably Prates at this point."

To further back his statement, Hardy pointed out the technical and mental advantages Prates possesses. “It's his swagger. It's his confidence. It's his size. He's got that kind of Alex Pereira rocking-to-range and just generates scary power. And I think that confidence and size and swagger over 25 minutes is exhausting for Islam to deal with.”

While Hardy made a calculated choice between Morales and Prates, he also mentioned Sean Brady, who could be a long-term threat to the Dagestani.

“The reason I threw Sean Brady out there is because I actually think he's probably one of the more difficult fighters in this division over 25 minutes, because he can keep the fight moving in much more creative ways than Makhachev and Garry were able to,” he added. 

Brady's ability to change pace and angle throughout the championship rounds had Hardy convinced. However, Prates is his first pick and, interestingly, Makhachev’s too. 

Islam Makhachev claims Carlos Prates is next

Despite his flaws, the Dagestani performed just enough and better than Garry to win on the judges' cards. And just after the victory, he was asked about his next challenge in the division. 

During the press conference, Makhachev quickly chose Carlos Prates as the next viable contender. While Makhachev did not dismiss Michael Morales, he did note his inactivity as a determining factor. 

Prates is currently three fights undefeated, with his most recent win over the former champion Jack Della Maddalena. He possesses devastating knockout power with a calm and composed demeanor inside the cage, making him a real threat. 

And, following the Garry bout, size in the welterweight division appears to be a significant disadvantage for the champion. However, Makhachev has pledged to increase weight and strength before his next test, and it will be intriguing to watch if he follows through on his word.