Carlos Prates has already set his sights on Islam Makhachev after watching the welterweight champion defend his title at UFC 330.
Prates was in attendance alongside fellow undefeated contender Michael Morales as Makhachev defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision. Following the fight, Prates sent a direct warning to the champion, promising to knock him out and bring the welterweight title back to Brazil. He said:
“I will knock you out, bro. I will knock you out. I will bring that belt to Brazil. The first welterweight champion from Brazil.”
Check out Carlos Prates’ comments below:
The callout comes after Prates has rebuilt his momentum following his only setback in his UFC run, a decision loss to Garry in April 2025. Since then, the Brazilian has rattled off three consecutive knockout victories over Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena.
His latest performance was the biggest statement of the three.
Prates demolished former welterweight champion Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC Perth, dropping him multiple times before securing a third-round TKO. The victory followed knockout wins over Edwards and Neal, giving Prates three straight stoppages against high-level opposition.
Carlos Prates vs. Islam Makhachev
The potential matchup between Carlos Prates and pound-for-pound king Islam Makhachev presents a fascinating clash of strengths.
Makhachev would likely look to exploit one of the biggest question marks in Prates’ game, which is his ability to defend takedowns. The Brazilian has shown vulnerabilities in grappling exchanges before, while Makhachev’s ability to close distance, chain takedowns, and control opponents is arguably the best in the UFC.
‘The Nightmare,’ however, possesses a weapon that could make even Makhachev think twice about entering the pocket.
His knockout power is among the most dangerous in the welterweight division. Prates has built his recent rise on brutal finishes and has shown that he needs only one clean connection to completely change a fight. Makhachev has faced dangerous strikers throughout his career, but few have combined that level of power with Prates’ size and reach.
The Brazilian’s path would be keeping the fight standing and forcing Makhachev to navigate his striking at range. For Makhachev, the priority would be getting Prates to the canvas before the Brazilian can establish his rhythm.
Prates also appeared to have his next move mapped out during UFC 330. While interacting with Morales in the crowd, he indicated that he would be ready to defend the title against the undefeated contender after first defeating Makhachev and bringing the belt to Brazil.
For now, Makhachev remains champion after extending his historic UFC winning streak to 17 fights. But with Prates surging behind him, the champion may have one of the most dangerous challengers in the division waiting for his opportunity.
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