I think [Garry can beat Makhachev]. It's hard, but I think he has some skills needed to beat Islam. If I need to bet my money, of course Islam. But I really want Ian to get the belt, and then we do a rematch in Brazil for the title.
Depending on who is chosen next to challenge Makhachev for the belt, practically any combination among the top six in the division would make sense. In an interview with Sherdog.com shortly after his victory over Leon Edwards at UFC 322, on the same night that Makhachev took the belt from Madalena and Michael Morales defeated Sean Brady, Carlos Prates revealed that he believed the UFC would put him next against Maddalena next.