Oliveira: PRATES Has REAL CHANCE To STUN Makhachev
“Prates has a real chance to win.”
Charles Oliveira says Carlos Prates has the power, the kicks and the calm to trouble welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
"Prates has a real chance to win."
Charles Oliveira said that about Carlos Prates and a potential fight with Islam Makhachev. Oliveira is the BMF titleholder. He shared the view in an interview cited on October 16.
That is a strong call. Makhachev is the UFC welterweight champion. Most challengers are written off before the fight starts.
Why Oliveira Sees Danger
Oliveira pointed to Prates as a sharp striker with knockout power. He also noted that Prates is a black belt in jiu-jitsu.
He singled out kicks to the ribs and calves. Oliveira said that approach could catch the champion off guard.
The point is clear. Prates does not need to outwrestle Makhachev for five rounds. He needs to hurt him early and keep his composure.
"Prates has a real chance to win."
The Champion's Case
Makhachev last fought on August 16 at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. He beat Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision and defended his welterweight title.
His record stands at 29 wins and one loss. That record shows why he starts as the favorite in almost any matchup.
Oliveira added a key condition. If Makhachev does not finish the fight in the first or second round, Prates becomes more dangerous as it goes on.
The Challenger's Case
Prates last fought in May 2026 at UFC Fight Night 275. He beat Jack Della Maddalena by third-round technical knockout.
His record stands at 24 wins and seven losses. The finish over a former champion-level opponent is the result that fuels this talk.
No fight between Makhachev and Prates has been announced in the source. This is Oliveira's assessment of a potential bout, not a confirmed booking.
So here is the question. Is Oliveira reading Prates right, or is Makhachev simply a level above everyone at welterweight right now?
