Islam Makhachev: Easy Win & Title Fight Withdrawal

Welterweight Knockout Artist Carlos Prates Faces a Reality Check on Islam Makhachev Title Aspirations

The electrifying welterweight division is buzzing with the potential of Carlos Prates, who has emerged as a notable contender after his dominant performance at UFC 322. However, his sights set on a championship bout with Islam Makhachev might be premature, according to seasoned observers.

Prates, nicknamed “The Nightmare,” secured his 18th career knockout victory on the main card of UFC 322, held at Madison Square Garden in New York on Sunday, November 16, 2025. His devastating second-round finish of Leon Edwards cemented his status and propelled him to the fifth spot in the UFC welterweight rankings. Following the bout, Prates openly expressed his ambition to face the reigning welterweight champion, Islam Makhachev.

Makhachev, who recently transitioned from lightweight, also made a statement at UFC 322, defeating Jack Della maddalena on the same main card. This victory further solidified his dominance in his new weight class.

Despite Prates’ extraordinary knockout power, a former UFC champion has raised a significant concern. Tyler Jeffrey Dillashaw, a respected figure in the sport, has advised Prates to reconsider his immediate pursuit of Makhachev. Dillashaw highlighted Makhachev’s elite wrestling pedigree, suggesting it could pose a significant challenge to Prates’ striking-heavy style. He drew a parallel to Prates’ previous defeat against Ian Machado Garry at UFC ESPN 66 in April, implying that Makhachev’s grappling could neutralize prates’ offensive strengths, much like Garry’s did.

While Prates’ knockout prowess is undeniable, the path to a championship often requires a well-rounded skillset.Makhachev’s remarkable wrestling and control on the ground have proven to be a formidable obstacle for many top welterweights. The question remains whether Prates can develop the necessary defensive grappling or offensive wrestling to counter makhachev’s strengths, or if his pursuit of the belt will lead to a similar outcome as his previous setback.

Also read: UFC Qatar – Khamzat Chimaev confirmed to help fierce rival Islam Makhachev