Carlos Prates Sends Warning to Islam Makhachev, Ian Garry and the Welterweight Division After Numerous Callouts

Brazilian knockout artist Carlos Prates remains confident in his title ambitions as he shuts down callouts from contenders.

Carlos Prates Sends Warning to Islam Makhachev, Ian Garry and the Welterweight Division After Numerous Callouts

Carlos Prates warns everyone (Image via MMA Fighting/Facebook)

Carlos Prates has become a name that nearly every top 10 fighter wants to face for his dominant knockout streak. However, Prates remains focused on UFC gold and recently warned the winner of Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry that he should be next for the welterweight title.

Prates has remained a mainstay in the UFC welterweight division through consistent victories over elite opponents. He cemented that status at UFC 322 by knocking out former champion Leon Edwards. He recently dominated former champion Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, rising to No. 2 in the welterweight rankings.

However, several contenders have recently started calling out the Brazilian knockout artist as his profile continues growing. Sean Brady recently said he was ready to re-enter the welterweight top three with a win over Prates. That challenge prompted Prates to address the division and make his championship ambitions clear.

A lot of you guys @seanbradymma , @medicu , and the other welterweights—have been mentioning my name. Calm down, brothers. In my next fight, I’m taking that belt. After that, I’ll deal with all of you and take you straight to the Kingdom of Pain. Be ready. Nothing personal, just business. 

Carlos Prates via Instagram

Another fighter rising in the welterweight division is Serbian star Uros Medic, who made waves after his brutal knockout over Daniel Rodriguez at UFC Belgrade. In his post-fight press conference, Medic expressed his desire to face Prates in the future. A win over the Brazilian contender could boost his title ambitions.

Prates was also a popular choice to challenge Makhachev before the UFC 330 matchup against Garry was announced. The Brazilian star had called for a title shot after his dominant victory over JDM at UFC Perth. His recent performances have strengthened his position among the division’s leading contenders.

However, Prates remained realistic about his chances against Garry and acknowledged the Irishman’s previous accomplishments. He believed Garry’s title opportunity was partly a reward for stepping in on short notice multiple times. Garry also holds a unanimous decision win over Prates at UFC Kansas City in April 2025.

Another major name in the welterweight title discussions remains Michael Morales, who has waited for a championship opportunity of his own. Morales earned momentum after knocking out Brady at UFC 322. However, he is currently serving as the backup fighter for the welterweight title clash at UFC 330.

Carlos Prates has made it clear that he will be waiting for the winner of Islam Makhachev vs Ian Garry at UFC 330. He was confident that the Dagestani star would choose him for the next title defense. Callouts from other contenders do not appear to bother ‘The Nightmare’, as his sights remain firmly set on undisputed gold.

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Carlos Prates reveals fight against Michael Morales would make sense if title opportunity gets snubbed

Michael Morales has emerged as one of the most dangerous contenders in the UFC welterweight division through his impressive performances. The Ecuadorian striker has built momentum with his knockout power and victories over veteran competition such as Gilbert Burns and Neil Magny.

Sean Brady entered the UFC 322 matchup ranked No. 2 in the welterweight division, while Morales was ranked No. 8. A win over Morales would have likely secured Brady a title shot. However, the tables turned as Morales showed no fear and knocked out the contender in the first round.

Carlos Prates
Carlos Prates (via Yahoo Sports)

UFC 322 served as a mini tournament for the welterweight division with top contenders competing for title opportunities. Islam Makhachev became champion, while Morales defeated Brady and Carlos Prates knocked out Leon Edwards. With both seeking title shots, Prates had an offer for Morales if he misses the next opportunity.

If I have no choice and fight somebody and then go to the belt, I would pick Morales. This fight makes sense, I’m number one, he’s number two.

Carlos Prates via The Pound for Pound Show

Morales and Prates have emerged as two of the biggest threats in the UFC welterweight division after their recent victories. Both contenders are now waiting for their championship opportunities. If the title picture does not move in their favor, a matchup between the two could become a major contender fight.

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