Carlos Prates says Makhachev avoids him out of laziness, not fear

Brazilian fighter Carlos Prates has commented on why UFC champion Islam Makhachev is not rushing to fight him. According to Prates, it is not fear. He believes Makhachev simply does not want to train.

Prates suggested the reasons could be laziness, not wanting to prepare for a fight right now, or that Makhachev has become too rich. According to the available data, Prates is ranked first in the UFC welterweight division and has a record of 24-7-0. Makhachev has a record of 29-1-0, holds the welterweight title and is ranked first pound-for-pound.

Prates is scheduled to face Michael Morales in a title fight at UFC 336 on January 31, 2027.