Makhachev Names Top Welterweight Contenders and Predicts Future Champion

Pulse Sports Team 15:46 - 14 September 2026

Islam Makhachev believes Ian Machado Garry is the next welterweight champion, but not anytime soon.

In August, Makhachev faced Garry in the main event of UFC 330, defending his welterweight title for the first time. The bout presented a significant challenge for the champion, forcing him to secure a unanimous decision victory after five grueling rounds.

This triumph marked Makhachev's 17th consecutive win in the UFC, surpassing the record previously held by Anderson Silva. Following the fight, the Dagestani confirmed his intention to extend his streak to 20 consecutive victories. Makhachev views his potential future opponents—Carlos Prates, Michael Morales, and Shavkat Rakhmonov—as equally formidable.

“Honestly, I put Prates, Morales, and Rakhmonov on the same level,” Makhachev told Ushatayka. “Prates has power in his strikes; he’s dangerous. Morales is very big and dangerous both in wrestling and striking. And Shavkat is a very serious opponent in terms of his fighting skills.”

The welterweight champion also dismissed another rising contender, former Bellator champion Yaroslav Amosov, stating that he believes Garry is actually the most dangerous fighter in the 170-pound division. He added that the Irishman will become champion after Makhachev himself leaves the sport.

“I don’t think Amosov is a dangerous opponent,” Makhachev said. “I watched the fight where someone neutralized his wrestling, and you saw what happened. I don’t consider him a dangerous fighter at all. I believe one of the most dangerous and serious opponents was in my last fight with Ian Garry. And I think he will become champion after I’m gone. He’s young. I think he still has time.”

For now, Garry will have to wait, but he is already eyeing a bout with one of Makhachev’s potential rivals – Michael Morales. Meanwhile, Makhachev has made it clear that he would like to add another title defense before Ramadan, which begins in February, with Carlos Prates being the most likely contender.