During a performance op Death Row MMA with Jorge Masvidalthe current number four in the weight category covered several topics regarding his rise into the top five hierarchy. Another person who found himself in a strong spot in the rankings hierarchy after Madison Square Garden is Carlos Prates, who is now ranked number six in the 170-pound division.
Regarding what could possibly be the next step for him and indicating that he is open to some intriguing options, Morales said [via MMA Fighting],
“They already told me that I was a candidate to fight for the title, but next year. I think it will be around July or June, depending on when he wants to fight, Makhachev. Carlos Prates has the power. He knows where to hit you when he throws a punch. We have seen that he can also hold it for three rounds in a row, even if you wrestle him. So I think he also moves fast and he also wants to be a champion.”
‘But first we go. I want to secure what is mine, and then whoever comes will come.” [But] if I have to fight Prates for the belt, I will do it. No problem. Because in this game it’s everyone against everyone. It’s the only thing that can be done. No one will back down.”
Michael Morales, Carlos Prates and how UFC 322 played out
Michael Morales put in a masterful performance against one of the top welterweight contenders in Sean Brady, with Morales dispatching Brady with opening strikes.
Carlos Prates also picked up a stoppage victory and added the scalp of a former UFC champion to his resume. Prates became the first man to knock out Leon Edwards inside the confines of the octagon, doing so on the UFC’s latest pay-per-view offering.
With Islam Makhachev ascending to the welterweight throne to end boxing competitions at UFC 322, it paints an interesting picture for the welterweight landscape for 2026 and beyond.
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