Islam Makhachev Rejects Undefeated Star for Carlos Prates as Next Title Contender Following UFC 330

Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev suggested why Carlos Prates deserves the next title shot over other top contenders.

Islam Makhachev Rejects Undefeated Star for Carlos Prates as Next Title Contender Following UFC 330

Islam Makhachev picks Carlos Prates for title shot (via talkSport, X)

Islam Makhachev entered the UFC welterweight division and defeated Jack Della Maddalena to capture the UFC welterweight title. However, a young and hungry division awaited the Dagestani champion. As he prepares to face Ian Garry at UFC 330, Makhachev has already confidently identified his preferred next opponent.

At UFC 322, two contenders emerged in the welterweight title race. Michael Morales made a statement by knocking out top contender Sean Brady, while Carlos Prates stopped former champion Leon Edwards with a devastating finish. Both victories established them as leading challengers for Islam Makhachev’s welterweight title.

However, Prates made another statement at UFC Perth by knocking out Jack Della Maddalena. The victory further strengthened the Brazilian’s title credentials, and he has remained vocal about fighting for the belt ever since. If Makhachev defeats Garry at UFC 330, he appears ready to give Prates that opportunity.

He [Morales] has to fight, bro. When he fight last time? He’s waiting for the title fight or what? Too much contenders. He has to fight against Prates or Shavkat… I don’t know when [Shavkat] is coming back. Too much contenders. We have to know who is the No. 1 contender. Nutella cake is going to be good opponent. Exciting fighter, it’s going to be a good fight.

Islam Makhachev via MMA Junkie

Makhachev’s “Nutella Cake” nickname for Prates has a humorous backstory. Backstage before UFC 322, he spotted the Brazilian enjoying a slice of Nutella cake. Ever since that encounter, Makhachev has jokingly referred to Prates as “Nutella Cake,” including while discussing a potential title fight.

Morales has remained vocal about earning a welterweight title shot and confident in facing the Dagestani phenom. The undefeated Ecuadorian has made it clear that Makhachev’s accomplishments do not change his mindset. Morales insists he is ready to fight whoever the UFC puts in front of him.

What sets Morales apart is his undefeated record, which currently stands at 19-0. The welterweight contender has delivered dominant performances against fighters like Gilbert Burns and Neil Magny under the UFC banner. However, his record briefly faced controversy after Tapology added an early exhibition career loss, which was later corrected.

If Garry wins at UFC 330, the momentum could shift in the title picture. The Irish contender has history with Prates after defeating him by unanimous decision at UFC Kansas City. With ‘The Nightmare’ pushing for a title shot, their previous matchup adds another layer to the welterweight division.

Ian Garry has earned his title shot through consistent performances, including wins in short-notice situations. After defeating former champion Belal Muhammad in his last outing, ‘The Future’ now prepares to face Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 as the champion begins his welterweight reign.

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Islam Makhachev reveals why he does not like the way he won the title at UFC 322

There were major doubts surrounding Islam Makhachev ahead of UFC 322 as he moved up to welterweight. Questions remained about his ability to handle the increased size, cardio demands, and Jack Della Maddalena’s striking. Many wondered if the former lightweight champion could overcome the challenges of competing at 170 pounds.

Makhachev silenced those doubts at UFC 322 by delivering a dominant performance against Jack Della Maddalena. The Dagestani champion controlled the fight from start to finish, securing a unanimous decision victory and becoming the UFC’s 11th two-division champion.

Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena
Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena (via MMA Fighting)

However, many criticized the performance because it relied heavily on grappling with limited standup exchanges. Makhachev’s rival Ilia Topuria also criticized his approach, claiming the champion did not prioritize entertaining the audience. The Dagestani star has since addressed his mindset ahead of UFC 330 and remains focused on securing another victory.

I wanted to be the double champ, I was fighting just for the win. I didn’t do something to finish Jack, because I understand, I’d win every round and just wanted to take the second belt. This fight [against Ian] I will take more risks to finish my opponent.

Islam Makhachev via MMA Junkie

Makhachev has already weighed in on the challenge awaiting him at UFC 330 against Ian Machado Garry. The Dagestani champion does not view the Irish contender as a major threat and remains confident heading into his title defense. After overcoming the move to welterweight, Makhachev looks to continue his championship run.

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