Javier Mendez believes Carlos Prates could emerge as Islam Makhachev's toughest challenge at welterweight if the champion successfully defends his title against Ian Machado Garry next month.
Makhachev is scheduled to defend the UFC welterweight championship against Garry in the main event of UFC 330 on August 15. Earlier this week, Michael Morales confirmed that he will serve as the official backup fighter for the title bout in Philadelphia.
Despite Morales being next in line as the backup, Mendez believes Prates presents the more difficult stylistic matchup for Makhachev.
“The next one I’m gonna have to say is probably Carlos Prates,” Mendez said.
“He is the more skilful of the two (Morales and Prates). Morales is stronger and probably hungrier, but he’s more reckless, so we just have to watch out for the haymakers with him.”
Mendez went on to explain why he views Prates as the greater long-term threat.
“But Prates would be the next more dangerous guy,” he continued. “I feel he is more polished with his striking ability and using his height right. He may not have the striking edge or the grappling edge, but he is strong. He’s very strong.
“So, that’s where you have to be careful with a young lion like him. These guys are formidable, very formidable.”
