Carlos Prates believes he is the public's favorite to face Islam Makhachev for the UFC belt. The Fighting Nerds smoker gained momentum in the welterweight division (up to 77 kg) after knocking out Leon Edwards , a result that firmly placed him in contention for a future title shot. Even aware of the competition in the category, the fighter remains confident that he has solid arguments to justify his candidacy.
During an interview with Ariel Helwani, Carlos Prates highlighted that the UFC operates as a business driven by entertainment and stated that he perceives a public preference for seeing him face Islam Makhachev . According to the smoker, his knockouts contribute to this popularity.
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“The UFC is a business, the UFC is entertainment. If you ask people, I think most want to see Carlos Prates against Makhachev. It’s not my fault. I just get in the cage and knock people out. When Della Maddalena fought for the belt, he was only number 4 or 5, and he only beat Gilbert Burns ,” said Carlos Prates.
Carlos Prates suggests a new opponent before facing Islam Makhachev in the UFC.
Prates celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Although he wanted to fight for the belt, Carlos Prates also showed composure regarding the future, indicating that if a direct title fight doesn't materialize at this time, he is willing to face Jack Della Maddalena before seeking his opportunity again.
"If that doesn't happen, that's fine. I can fight JDM and then go for the title," concluded the Fighting Nerds smoker.
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