Prates responds to Makhachev, declares readiness for fight

Brazilian MMA fighter Carlos Prates has shared his thoughts on UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev. It is clear from his words that the Brazilian fighter does not agree with being considered an easy opponent and is ready to test himself against the champion in the octagon.

Prates says Makhachev might think he is an easier opponent than Garry. The Brazilian athlete cited his previous loss to Ian Garry as the reason for this perception. However, he notes that the result does not fully reflect his current level.

"Islam thinks I'm an easier opponent than Garry... Maybe it's because Ian beat me," Prates said.

Carlos Prates emphasized that he is not an easy fighter to hold down on the ground. According to him, both Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena took him down, but he managed to get back up and return the fight to a standing position.

This aspect could be one of Prates' main weapons in a potential fight against Makhachev, as Islam's greatest strength is his wrestling, control, and ability to keep opponents under pressure on the ground. If Prates can maintain his ability to get up quickly, he could become a difficult opponent for the champion.

"Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena both took me to the ground, but they couldn't hold me. I still managed to get back to striking. Let's see what Makhachev can do!" the Brazilian fighter said confidently.

Prates' statement is being perceived as an open challenge to Makhachev. While he acknowledges Islam's wrestling dominance, he shows that he does not consider himself an easy target. In MMA, such psychological games increase interest before big fights.

As a reminder, Carlos Prates defeated Jack Della Maddalena by TKO in the 3rd round in his last fight. This victory significantly strengthened his position in the welterweight division and made his claim against top opponents more serious.

For Makhachev, strikers like Prates are always an interesting test. If the fight takes place mostly on the feet, the Brazilian athlete could pose a threat. But if Islam imposes his style, it is highly likely he will take full control through wrestling and ground dominance.

In short, Carlos Prates made a confident statement regarding Islam Makhachev and said he should not be considered an easy opponent. He highlights his ability to get up from the ground as one of his main strengths. Now the question is: if this fight is organized, can Prates really escape Makhachev's control, or will Islam once again turn on his "no Wi-Fi on the ground, but there is control" mode?