UFC champion Islam Makhachev mocks challenge from undefeated rival and prioritizes Carlos Prates.

Makhachev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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The UFC's top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, Islam Makhachev, successfully defended his welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg) by defeating Ian Garry in his last fight. However, the Russian already has other names to worry about. Besides Carlos Prates , his likely next challenger, he was also recently challenged by Shavkat Rakhmonov . In response, the champion showed no interest in facing him at this time.

Makhachev was asked about the subject in an interview with 'Match TV' this Wednesday (9). He showed himself available to face Rakhmonov, but made it clear that the priority is the Brazilian, who is much more active and coming off big knockout wins.

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“He gave an interview with a huge knee brace on his knee, saying that I should have chosen him. He wants me to choose him and then wait a year and a half for him to recover? Let him recover and he will become one of the challengers. I never said I wouldn't fight him,” he stated.

😅🇰🇿 Islam Makhachev responds to Shavkat Rakhmonov who wasn't happy with him not being mentioned as the next contender:

“He gave an interview with a huge brace on his knee. He wants me to choose him and then wait for 1.5 years for him to recover?”

🎥 MATCH TV pic.twitter.com/u5ayP5D7zz

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 9, 2026

Islam Makhachev wants to return in the coming months.

Islam Makhachev celebrates his victory at UFC 330. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

Holding the longest winning streak in Ultimate history, Islam is eager to return to competition. In the UFC 330 press conference , the Russian stated his interest in returning before Ramadan , which takes place in February 2027. In this context, Prates' name emerges as the most likely candidate to challenge him. The Brazilian is accustomed to fighting many times a year and holds the number one ranking in his weight class.

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