Charles Oliveira believes Carlos Prates has the necessary tools to defeat UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, pointing to weaknesses exposed during the Russian’s recent title defence against Ian Machado Garry.
Prates is expected to challenge for the 170-pound title next year, with Oliveira backing his fellow Brazilian to pose a significant threat to Makhachev. The former lightweight champion, who previously faced Makhachev, believes Prates can build on the success Garry enjoyed against the champion.
“I think Garry showed Prates the blueprint,” Oliveira told Sherdog. “I usually say these matchups will be close, but this time, I believe Prates has a real chance to win. Beyond being a sniper, he possesses knockout power and is a black belt in jiu-jitsu.”
“If he lands those kicks to the ribs and calves, just like Garry did, he could catch the champion off guard,” Oliveira added. “If Islam doesn’t secure a finish in the first or second round and Prates maintains the composure he’s shown in his recent fights, he has everything he needs to win.”
Prates, who holds a professional record of 24-7, has finished all seven of his UFC victories and is expected to be among the leading contenders for Makhachev’s title in 2027. No official date has been announced for a potential championship bout.
Makhachev, meanwhile, holds a 29-1 professional record and has successfully defended his welterweight championship once since moving up from lightweight. His most recent defence saw him go the distance against Garry, who trains alongside Oliveira.
