Carlos Prates dreams of a UFC belt, but envisions a different opponent for 2026; understand why.

Prates at the Brazilian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/thenightmare_170

One of the top MMA prospects for 2026, Carlos Prates He is the leading candidate to become the first Brazilian champion in history in the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg). However, despite occupying the sixth position in the ranking and coming off a victory against... Leon edwardsThe Fighting Nerds star doesn't believe he'll have the opportunity to compete for the title in his next fight.

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When asked about the state of the division and his future in the UFC during an interview with... Espaitec's 'Combat Kids MMA', the São Paulo native, made himself available to compete for the belt, but highlighted that the current structure of the division is unlikely to be favorable to a duel with Makhachev at this time.

"Of course I would love to fight for the belt, but I think Kamaru is going to fight, so I'm really interested in facing him." Jack Della Maddalena or the MichaelMorales"The fighter stated."

Carlos Prates wants Jack Della Maddalena or MichaelMorales next in the welterweight division‼️

“Of course I would love to fight for the belt, but I think Kamaru is going to fight, so I am really looking to fight Jack Della Maddalena or MichaelMorales. "

Via: combat kids mma pic.twitter.com/9N7jZyIRK0

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 22, 2025

Since the victory against the Australian, Islam makhachev has been speaking publicly about his desire to defend the title for the first time against Kamaru Usman, former champion of the category. Because both are managed by Ali Abdelaziz, the duel shouldn't be difficult to make official.

Carlos Prates has only one loss in the UFC.

Prates celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

With seven appearances in the world's largest MMA organization, Prates was surpassed only by Ian Garyin a duel decided by unanimous decision. All six of his other victories were achieved via knockout, for which he was awarded Performance of the Night bonuses.