Carlos Prates is confident that a victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth this weekend will lead directly to a title shot.
Currently on a two-fight win streak with consecutive knockout victories, Prates aims to defeat another former champion and then challenge the UFC welterweight kingpin.
Reports indicate that Islam Makhachev is slated to defend his 170-pound title in August against Ian Machado Garry.
If Prates emerges victorious from his next bout, he desires to face the winner of the anticipated Makhachev vs. Garry matchup. Prates expressed his support for Garry, noting their past encounter where Garry, on short notice, secured a strategic win and handed Prates his first UFC loss.
Prates is eager for a rematch with Garry, ideally in Brazil, a sentiment both fighters have reportedly agreed upon.
Carlos Prates Praises Islam Makhachev, Seeks Title Shot After JDM Bout
During UFC Perth Media Day, Prates stated:
“I think Islam and Ian are going to fight in August, and I’ll get the winner. Islam is the GOAT right now. He is a two-division [UFC] champ. He has really good wrestling, so it’s hard to fight him.”
In further comments to MMA Junkie, Prates reiterated his ambition:
“I will be the next after August. Islam gonna fight Ian [at UFC 330] and then after that, I’m gonna get the winner.”