Carlos Prates suggests an undefeated fighter for the belt if Makhachev retires after UFC 330.

Prates at the UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC

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Carlos Prates is making plans for a possible UFC welterweight (up to 77,1 kg) title fight. Riding a three-fight knockout winning streak against Geoff Neal , Leon Edwards , and Jack Della Maddalena , the Brazilian believes he's close to receiving a title shot and even envisions a scenario with the belt vacant. Therefore, the outcome of the fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry , scheduled for UFC 330 on August 15th in Philadelphia, could directly determine his next steps.

In an interview with 'Canal Golpe Baixo' on YouTube, the Fighting Nerds athlete analyzed the future of the division and stated that, should Islam Makhachev defeat Ian Garry and choose to retire, he and Michael Morales would be the names to challenge for the belt left by the Russian. The São Paulo native is in great form and has been gaining prominence after impressive victories against high-level athletes in the division.

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"Let's suppose Makhachev beats Ian Garry and retires, it will be me and him ( Michael Morales ) for the vacant belt," declared Carlos Prates.

The Brazilian's confidence reflects his great form inside the octagon. With dominant performances and three consecutive knockouts against high-level opponents, Prates has established himself among the top names in the division and gained momentum in the title race.

If the champion actually relinquishes the belt, Carlos Prates believes he will be in the front row to compete for the title of new champion of the division.

Prates' Fighters in MMA

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

At 32 years old, Carlos Prates is one of the leading names in the UFC welterweight division. A native of Taubaté (SP), the Brazilian boasts a professional record of 24 wins and seven losses, with an impressive 19 knockout victories and three submission wins, numbers that reinforce his reputation as a striker. A member of the Fighting Nerds team, 'The Nightmare' is experiencing a great phase in the organization, riding a wave of victories over names like Jack Della Maddalena , Leon Edwards , and Geoff Neal , solidifying himself as one of the main contenders for the division's belt.

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