While giving his two cents on the top UFC welterweight contenders, champion Islam Makhachev has named a 170-pounder who he believes will become a champion once he retires.

During a recent sit-down with Ushatayka, Makhachev first talked about his potential next opponent, Carlos Prates, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and the undefeated Michael Morales. He opined that “The Nightmare,” “Nomad,” and Morales are on the same level skill-wise. Prates has dangerous striking, whereas Morales is even more well-rounded, and Rakhmonov is also a phenomenal opponent. He said:

“Honestly, I put [Prates, Shavkat and Morales] all on the same level. Prates has striking power he’s dangerous. Morales himself is very big, and he’s dangerous both in wrestling and on the feet. Shavkat as well, overall skill-wise he’s a very serious opponent.”

About the No. 13-ranked contender Yaroslav Amosov, Makhachev added:

“I don’t think [Amosov] is a dangerous opponent. Someone shut down his wrestling, and look what happened. I don’t consider him a dangerous fighter at all.”

Islam Makhachev names top UFC welterweight who he thinks will ‘become champion after Makhachev is done being champion’

During the same interview, two-division titleholder Islam Makhachev lauded former opponent Ian Machado Garry. Garry lost to Makhachev at UFC 330 by unanimous decision.

After sharing the octagon with the Irishman for 25 minutes, the Dagestani wrestling maestro believes Garry is one of the “most dangerous and serious” 170-pounders, who will become champion once Makhachev retires. The pound-for-pound king said:

“I think one of the most dangerous and serious opponents was my last fight with Ian Garry. And I think he’ll become champion after I’m done being champion.”

Check out Islam Makhachev’s comments below:

Islam Makhachev suffered minor injuries from the fight with Garry and wants to enter the octagon potentially later this year or before Ramadan 2027 to defend his welterweight title again. He believes Carlos Prates is the contender who deserves to be the next title challenger.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – AUGUST 15: Islam Makhachev of Russia reacts after a victory against Ian Machado Garry of Ireland in the UFC welterweight championship fight during the UFC 330 event at Xfinity Mobile Arena on August 15, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.