TLDR
- Carlos Prates called Islam Makhachev a boring fighter during an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show
- Prates said he doesn’t like watching grappling-heavy fights even though he enjoys training grappling
- Makhachev has won both welterweight fights by decision without finishing his opponents
- Prates is coming off wins over former champions Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards
- UFC president Dana White has not decided between Prates and Michael Morales for the next title shot
Sources: sports.yahoo.com | mmasucka.com
Carlos Prates has criticized UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, calling him a boring fighter during a recent interview. The Brazilian contender shared his honest opinion about the champion’s fighting style on “The Ariel Helwani Show.”
“I think he is boring. I don’t like watching fights at all,” Prates said. “But especially if there’s a grappler fighting, I don’t like to watch.”
Prates explained that he prefers watching knockouts and high-action fights. He admitted it’s ironic because he actually enjoys training grappling more than striking now.
“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,” Prates explained. “It’s a boring fight. I don’t like it.”
Makhachev’s Welterweight Record
Makhachev moved up to welterweight from lightweight and has won both of his fights at 170 pounds. The Russian champion defeated Jack Della Maddalena and Ian Machado Garry, though both victories came by decision.
Islam Makhachev says Carlos Prates deserves the next title shot:
"Shavkat is not fighting, Prates still fighting, still active. Morales also is good but I don't remember last time he fight.
If you ask who is more deserving, I think Carlos Prates."
pic.twitter.com/V3tJJZdTtL— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) August 16, 2026
Makhachev has not finished either opponent at welterweight, unlike his many finishes when he competed at lightweight. However, he has accomplished his main goal of getting his hand raised in both fights.
Prates is coming off back-to-back wins over former UFC welterweight champions Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards. These victories have positioned him as a top contender for the welterweight title.
The 33-year-old striker recently signed a new eight-fight contract with the UFC. He is known for his devastating knockout power and explosive striking ability.
Next Title Challenger Decision
UFC president Dana White was asked after UFC 330 who would get the next title shot against Makhachev. White did not commit to either Prates or Michael Morales as the next challenger.
Both fighters are considered deserving of a title shot at welterweight. Morales has a perfect 7-0 record in the UFC and has been with the promotion longer than Prates.
Morales was selected as the official backup fighter for the UFC 330 title fight. This means the UFC was prepared to have him step in if either Makhachev or Machado Garry could not compete.
Prates may have the edge due to his recent victories over former champions. His wins over Della Maddalena and Edwards are considered higher quality than Morales’ best UFC win over Sean Brady.
Prates’ star power has grown considerably in recent months. The UFC may decide to give him the title shot while his popularity is at its peak.
If the fight happens, it would be a classic clash of styles. Prates relies on his striking and knockout power, while Makhachev is known for his grappling and ground control.
The Brazilian striker will need to keep the fight standing to have his best chance at victory. Makhachev will likely look for takedowns and use his top pressure to control Prates on the ground.
Both Prates and Morales have expressed interest in fighting Makhachev next for the welterweight championship.
