Overview
- Makhachev defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330 on Saturday to keep the welterweight belt and set a new UFC record with 17 straight wins.
- At his post-fight appearances Makhachev said he wants another fight before Ramadan or by year-end and named Carlos Prates as the most deserving next challenger.
- Bookmakers quickly opened odds for possible defenses against Prates and undefeated backup Michael Morales, putting Makhachev as the favorite in both proposed matchups.
- Former fighters and analysts warned Makhachev must adapt his style for bigger welterweights because opponents at 170 pounds are generally larger and harder to control for five rounds.
- The UFC has not announced the next booking and faces a choice between matching Makhachev directly with Prates or staging a Prates‑vs‑Morales eliminator while the division and the GOAT conversation evolve.