Makhachev praises Carlos Prates' performance and reveals what he would do in a possible UFC duel.

Carlos Prates defeated Leon Edwards at UFC 322. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Islam Makhachev was not impressed with the performances of Carlos Prates and Michael Morales at UFC 322, held last Saturday (15). The Brazilian and the Ecuadorian knocked out Leon Edwards and Sean Brady , respectively. However, despite the brutal outcomes, the Russian, crowned champion at the same event – ​​said that he saw nothing special in the pair of prospects.

In an interview with ESPN, Makhachev, who defeated Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 322, praised and showed respect for Carlos Prates and Michael Morales . However, he highlighted that both lack experience and stated that he could dominate them for five rounds, just as he did with the Australian.

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“They are good. They are young and hungry, you know? I respect them, they did a good job today, but I didn't see anything that surprised me in either of them. They are young, without much experience. I can do the same things to them,” said Islam Makhachev.

The race for the UFC welterweight title.

Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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With Islam Makhachev at the top of the welterweight division (up to 77 kg), a long line of candidates emerges looking for a chance at the belt. In addition to Carlos Prates and Michael Morales , who should enter the top 5 of the category in the next ranking update, Ian Garry faces Belal Muhammad next Saturday (22), in a duel that could define the next challenger.

Other names in contention include Shavkat Rakhmonov , currently injured, as well as Kamaru Usman and Ilia Topuria . The latter is an outsider, as he is the lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg), but maintains an established rivalry with Makhachev.

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