Carlos Prates thinks he has made a strong case to contend for the UFC Welterweight Chamionship.
The first title defense for Islam Makahchev hasn’t been announced. Ian Machado Garry has been adamant that he deserves first dibs on Makhachev, but could his frenemy cut the line?
Following his third-round TKO victory over former welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena, Prates attended the UFC Perth post-fight press conference and said he should be the No. 1 contender at 170 pounds (h/t MMAFighting).
“I should be next,” Prates said. “Nobody beats two former champs on that really good way. They never do by knockout and then I come there and make it look easy. I respect to them, they are tough. But against Leon, against ‘JDM,’ I make it look like easy. And I’m the next. Nobody did it. Of course you have Morales, but Morales didn’t fight a former champ. I beat you former champs. So I will be the next.”
Prates is riding a three-fight winning streak with finishes in each bout. He knocked out Geoff Neal and former UFC Welterweight Champion Leon Edwards. With the TKO over Maddalena, Prates may have found himself in prime position to be called on for a big opportunity.
Back in April 2025, Prates was defeated by Ian Machado Garry via unanimous decision. The loss derailed Prates’ 11-fight winning streak.
Prates’ stock has never been higher after he was able to rebound. He has since gotten chummy with Garry, but the two believe they are bound to have a rematch at some point, possibly with UFC gold at stake.
Prates will have a new number next to his name when the official UFC welterweight rankings are updated. Maddalena held the No. 2 spot, which Prates might take over.
Do you think Carlos Prates has a chance at getting the next welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev? Share your thoughts in the comments below.