Makhachev backs Prates for welterweight title shot after dismissing Rakhmonov and Morales

Islam Makhachev has pointed to Carlos Prates as his preferred next welterweight title challenger, speaking after retaining his UFC belt with a hard-fought victory over Ian Garry at UFC 330 in Philadelphia on 16 August 2026.

Prates and Michael Morales were both ringside at the event and are considered the frontrunners for a future title shot. Makhachev made clear he views the Brazilian as the stronger candidate, largely on the basis of recent activity.

“If you ask me today, Shavkat [Rakhmonov] is not fighting; Prates is still fighting, still active,” Makhachev said after the bout. “Morales also is good, but I don’t remember the last time he fought. If you ask who is more deserving, I think Carlos Prates.”

Makhachev also ruled out Shavkat Rakhmonov, who has been sidelined with injuries since December 2024, despite the Kazakh remaining unbeaten. Morales, likewise undefeated, was passed over for the same reason — a lack of recent competitive action compared to Prates.

Prates carries a professional record of 24-7, and his most recent defeat came against Garry himself in April 2025. Since then, however, the Brazilian has stayed busy and productive, finishing Geoff Neal and collecting stoppage wins over two former champions in Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena.

The UFC 330 victory marked Makhachev’s first title defence since moving up to welterweight, and with Rakhmonov sidelined and Morales relatively inactive, Prates appears well-positioned to receive the next opportunity should he remain active in the coming months.