Carlos Prates Inks Massive 8-Fight UFC Extension, Told He’s Next in Line for Islam Makhachev

If you thought the UFC welterweight title picture couldn’t get any wilder, Carlos Prates just threw a massive wrench into the division's plans. Fresh off a viral photo alongside UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell, the Brazilian knockout artist confirmed he secured a brand new eight-fight extension with the promotion. More importantly, he claims he was told he is next in line for Islam Makhachev's 170-pound belt.

Catching up with Ariel Helwani, Prates didn't beat around the bush when asked about the post and what his meeting with UFC brass meant for his immediate future.

"I'm the next for the title, new contract, eight fights I think," Prates told Helwani.

Cutting the Line Ahead of Michael Morales

That statement instantly set off shockwaves across the division, particularly for rising contender Michael Morales. Both fighters were in attendance for UFC 330, watching closely as Makhachev defended his welterweight crown against Ian Garry. When the broadcast panned to the crowd, Prates was spotted wearing a t-shirt that simply read "I'm Next."

While Morales has been making his own case for a title shot, Prates believes his rival still has work to do before fighting for UFC gold. Addressing the back-and-forth between the two, the 33-year-old striking sensation gave a blunt update on where things stand.

"I think gonna fight maybe Belal Muhammad, or another fighter," Prates said. "But he needs to fight one more... You say I am scared to fight you. I am not scared of a fight with you; I am the No. 1 contender, so I want to fight for the belt. The UFC never offered me a fight against you. If they offered me the fight, of course I would knock you out really fast, in the first round."

Prates' confidence isn't baseless. Sitting on a dominant win over former champion Jack Della Maddalena, he possesses the kind of touch-of-death power that turns heads at the highest level. Even veteran analyst Dan Hardy recently picked Prates over Morales as the bigger threat to Makhachev, citing his size, swagger, and Alex Pereira-like ability to rock opponents from range.

Makhachev himself echoed those sentiments post-fight, hinting that Prates was the most viable next option given his recent activity. With a fresh eight-fight deal locked in and the champion's stamp of approval, Prates looks fully prepared to bring his scary knockout power straight to the top of the division.