Carlos Prates confident he receives title shot in next UFC appearance

Carlos Prates is confident that his next UFC appearance will lead directly to a welterweight title shot, regardless of who holds the belt. The Brazilian contender is eyeing the upcoming title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry, expected to take place this summer, and believes he will receive a shot against the winner.

Prates' confidence stems from conversations he has had with UFC officials, though he has declined to reveal specifics of those discussions. While the typical path might suggest lengthy inactivity if Makhachev retains his title—given the champion's historically infrequent fight schedule—Prates is convinced the promotion has already committed to him as the next challenger. Similarly, if Garry wins the belt, conventional wisdom would dictate an immediate rematch with Makhachev, but Prates does not believe that scenario will materialize.

The welterweight division has become increasingly competitive in recent years, and title shots remain among the most coveted opportunities in the UFC. Prates' assertion that he has guarantees from the promotion suggests confidence in his ranking and marketability. If true, this would position him as a legitimate next challenger regardless of the title fight's outcome, a relatively unusual commitment from the UFC that speaks to how the promotion views his credentials. Prates will need to stay active and continue winning if he hopes to realize this opportunity when the time comes.