Mendez backs Prates for Makhachev title shot

Makhachev’s coach sees Prates as a dangerous challenge

Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, has spoken out about who should be his protégé’s next title challenger. He specifically mentioned Carlos Prates as the most deserving challenger at the moment. At the same time, he also explained why the Brazilian could be a real threat.

Carlos Prates has been calling for a title fight for quite some time. However, after Islam Makhachev successfully defended his title at UFC 330, Carlos Prates made it clear on multiple occasions that he now wants to be the next one to fight for the title.

Mendez supports this view and is also certain that the UFC sees it exactly the same way.

“I think that’s the fight that should happen. The UFC wants that fight, I want that fight. Carlos Prates earned that fight. And I’m looking forward to that challenge”

he told Heavy Sports.

At the same time, Islam Makhachev’s trainer warns against underestimating Carlos Prates. He sees him as a serious threat, especially because of his punching power.

“You can’t mess up with [Prates] because he’s too dangerous. And he has a decent enough ground game, where he could survive the ground game and get back up”

he said.

In his analysis, Mendez also pointed to Islam Makhachev’s most recent bout against Machado Garry. In that fight, the titleholder proved that he can be dangerous even when fighting standing up. According to Mendez, this versatility could ultimately make the decisive difference. Carlos Prates also brings a certain versatility to the table, which makes the match even more exciting. Who do you think will win this match?