Ian Machado Garry makes Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates prediction

Having shared the cage with both men, Ian Machado Garry believes he knows the outcome of the rumored Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates fight.

While nothing has been confirmed by the UFC, welterweight champion Makhachev has a target on his back, with several contenders hoping to take his crown. One who arguably stands out above the rest is Brazilian showstopper Prates. The 33-year-old is must-see TV, having won all of his seven UFC wins by knockout. Prates most famously knocked out Leon Edwards on his way to title contention, and looks likely to be given the nod by the promotion.

To get his hands on the title, Carlos Prates must solve the puzzle that is Islam Makhachev. The Russian has shown no signs of slowing down since rising to the top of the sport and capturing belts in two separate weight classes. However, Prates possesses true one-touch knockout power, something Makhachev has yet to face.

Will the dominant spell of Makhachev continue, or will the challenger’s power prove to be too much for the champion on the night? Ian Machado Garry thinks he knows.

Considering the matchup a toss-up, Garry surprisingly sided with Prates, should the rumored clash become reality.

“It’s a dangerous fight for both men,” Garry said. “I think where Carlos is different to me is he’s far more aggressive, but equally, I don’t feel like he’s as talented when it comes to stopping the grappling. So, it’s a very, very interesting fight. It’s very, very interesting.”

“Can Carlos land that one punch to knock him out? Or can Islam take him down and finish him? It’s tough, you know. Right now, I feel like my heart is telling me that I think Carlos can get it done. I think Carlos can get it done, and then we run it back again.”