“I have so much confidence”: Ian Machado Garry reveals why Carlos Prates could beat Islam Makhachev and change the UFC welterweight title picture

Ian Machado Garry believes Carlos Prates could cause a major upset if he gets the chance to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC welterweight title. Garry, who recently lost a unanimous decision to Makhachev at UFC 330, sees Prates as a very different threat from the one he faced. While he gives Makhachev the advantage in grappling, Garry believes Prates’ aggressive style and power could change the fight with one clean punch.Ian Machado Garry explains why Carlos Prates could trouble Islam MakhachevGarry has already shared the cage with both fighters, which gives his opinion a little more weight. He faced Prates in April 2025 and won by unanimous decision, while Makhachev beat him by unanimous decision at UFC 330 in August 2026. Now, with Prates being discussed as a possible next challenger for Makhachev, Garry has a clear idea of what could make the matchup dangerous.“It’s a dangerous fight for both men. I think where Carlos is different to me is he’s far more aggressive, but equally I don’t feel like he’s as talented when it comes to stopping the grappling. So it’s a very, very interesting fight,” Garry said in an interview with Eze Talks Sports, as reported by MMA Junkie.Garry believes the fight could come down to one simple question: can Prates keep the fight standing long enough to land his biggest weapon, or can Makhachev take him down and control the action? “Can Carlos land that one punch to knock him out, or can Islam take him down and finish him?” Garry said.That is also why Garry is leaning toward the Brazilian. “Right now I feel like my heart is telling me that I think Carlos can get it done then we run it back again,” he added.Islam Makhachev vs. Carlos Prates could set up Ian Machado Garry rematchThe matchup is becoming a serious possibility after Makhachev successfully defended his welterweight title against Garry at UFC 330. The UFC reported that Makhachev won by unanimous decision and pointed to Carlos Prates and Michael Morales as possible names for his next title defense.Prates has also made his interest clear. After his recent run of wins, he has moved into position for a title opportunity, and MMA Fighting reported in August that he was confident about his chances against Makhachev.For Garry, the result could create an interesting path back to the title. He has said he wants to return to the top after his loss to Makhachev, and a Prates victory would give him another possible opponent to face. His confidence has not changed either.“I feel like if I fight him right now, I beat him. I have so much confidence in myself,” Garry said after his loss to Makhachev. He also said he wants to keep fighting the best opponents and prove that he belongs at the highest level.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.