Islam Makhachev (Image Via Getty) The teams of Islam Makhachev, Carlos Prates, Michael Morales and Justin Gaethje reportedly found themselves stranded at the same airport after UFC 330 in Philadelphia. The unusual travel delay brought several major UFC names together away from the Octagon.Their shared situation quickly caught attention because some of the fighters could become important players in the welterweight and lightweight divisions. Makhachev had just defended his welterweight title, while Prates was already making it clear that he wanted the Brazilian fighter’s next title opportunity.
Carlos Prates send strong message to Islam Makhachev as he challenges him for welterweight title
The unexpected airport situation involved the teams of several high-profile fighters. Islam Makhachev’s group was among those affected, while Carlos Prates, and Justin Gaethje’s teams were also reportedly caught in the same travel delay.The unusual meeting created plenty of interest among MMA fans. It brought together teams connected to fighters who could play important roles in upcoming UFC events.For Prates, the bigger story remains his potential matchup with Makhachev. The Brazilian attended UFC 330 and watched the champion successfully defend his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry.Makhachev’s victory was another major milestone in his career. He now has 17 consecutive UFC wins. That run has moved him beyond Anderson Silva’s previous record of 16 straight victories inside the promotion.Makhachev has only one professional loss. That defeat came more than a decade ago. Since then, he has developed into one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC.Prates, however, is not intimidated by the challenge. When asked to send a message to Makhachev, the Brazilian delivered a direct warning.“I will knock you out, bro. I will knock you out”, he said via MMA Crash.Prates also has a major goal in mind. He wants to become the first Brazilian fighter to win the UFC welterweight championship.“I will bring that belt to Brazil. The first welterweight champ from Brazil”, he added.The UFC has never had a Brazilian welterweight champion. Prates could therefore make history if he eventually gets the opportunity to challenge Makhachev.Makhachev himself appears to believe Prates could be his next opponent. The champion discussed his future after UFC 330 and said he wants to remain active.The 34-year-old also made it clear that he wants his next fight to happen before Ramadan.“We have to fight before Ramadan, 100%. January or end of the year [2026]. Because, I am not like 20-something. I’m 34 years old, and I have to fight as soon as possible”, Makhachev said.Makhachev also provided an update on his physical condition after the fight with Garry.He added, “I haven’t cut much weight, I don’t have like any big injuries, just have to double check my nose, that’s it.”With Prates calling for a title opportunity and Makhachev keen to return quickly, the unexpected airport meeting of their teams could prove an interesting moment ahead of a potential future UFC showdown.