Carlos Prates confirms he's next in line, promises he'll KO Islam Makhachev

Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev successfully defended his title in the UFC 330 main event, defeating Ian Machado Garry via unanimous decision. Days after the win, Makhachev’s next opponent is reportedly known.

After a recent meeting with UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell, top ranked welterweight contender Carlos Prates has a new multi-fight contract and assurances that he’s next in line for a title shot.

“I’m really excited now to go. It’s my time to train for him, fight him, and get the title,” Prates said on The Ariel Helwani Show. “I’m the next for the title. Yeah, basically, new contract, next one for the title and let’s go.”

When Prates eventually stands across the octagon from the champion, he predicts a violent ending and the crowning of a new champion.

“I’m excited to test myself against him. I know I’m really underdog, but not because of the title only the title or money, but I really want to fight him because I want to test myself against him,” said Prates. “I’m really excited to do this. I really think I can win. I can like shock the world I can make everybody surprising. … I will do this. I will do this.”

“I’m ready to fight. I can’t wait to fight him. I know I’ll knock him out. I promised everybody. I promise people in Brazil. I promise my coach. We’re going to change up everybody’s life and I will bring that belt to Brazil.”