Morning Report | Carlos Prates says UFC guaranteed him next title shot against Islam Makhachev, wants to ‘shock the world’

Carlos Prates claims he has secured the next title shot against Islam Makhachev after the UFC lightweight champion's historic 17th consecutive victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. Prates, who attended the event, told commentator Ariel Helwani that the promotion has guaranteed him the title opportunity as part of a new contract.

Makhachev made history as the first fighter to win 17 straight bouts, successfully defending his welterweight title via decision. After the win, Makhachev suggested that top contenders Prates and Michael Morales should fight to determine his next challenger. However, Prates says that decision has already been made in his favor, meaning Morales—who served as the backup fighter for the main event—will need another bout first. Prates suggested Morales might face Belal Muhammad or another opponent before potentially challenging for gold.

Despite being cast as a significant underdog against the pound-for-pound elite Makhachev, Prates expressed enthusiasm for the matchup. He emphasized that his primary motivation is testing himself against the champion rather than pursuing money or accolades. "I really think I can win. I can shock the world," Prates said, adding that he welcomes Makhachev's preference to compete before the end of the year.

While the UFC has not officially confirmed Prates as the next challenger or announced a timeline, the welterweight contender remains confident he can pull off an upset and cement himself as a legitimate title threat in the division.