Carlos Prates’ decisive knockout of former champion Leon Edwards at Madison Square Garden has elevated his profile in the UFC. Now, the man known as “The Nightmare” has set his sights on champion Islam Makhachev, while keeping Jack Della Maddalena in mind if a title shot doesn’t materialize.
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Rising Stars
Carlos Prates reveals ideal opponent if UFC champion Islam Makhachev isn’t next
Photo by Mma Fighting
Key Takeaways:
- Carlos Prates knocked out former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards at Madison Square Garden in November.
- He wants a shot at UFC champion Islam Makhachev next.
- Prates acknowledges that competition for Makhachev is fierce.
- If the title fight falls through, he hopes to face Jack Della Maddalena.
- This report first appeared in MMA Fighting on December 10, 2025.
Opening Paragraph
Carlos Prates made headlines in November when he shocked fans at Madison Square Garden by knocking out former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards. The emphatic victory has propelled him into the conversation for a potential title opportunity, and the Brazilian fighter, known as “The Nightmare,” has one name at the top of his list: current UFC champion Islam Makhachev.
Seeking the Champion
Facing the reigning champion is no small endeavor, and Prates admits the competition is heavy for a shot at Makhachev. Still, he remains undeterred. Riding on the momentum of his latest triumph, Prates has made it clear that he wants to test himself against the best in the sport. “It’s only logical,” he hinted in a recent interview, referencing how every fighter dreams of seizing the title in their weight class.
A Backup Plan: Jack Della Maddalena
Prates recognizes that grabbing a title fight isn’t guaranteed. Should his immediate championship aspirations be delayed, he has singled out Jack Della Maddalena as the ideal next step. While he respects the competition across the division, it is clear that true contenders must consistently prove themselves. Prates believes that a convincing win over Della Maddalena would both solidify his résumé and reaffirm his readiness for Makhachev.
Ambitions Fueled by a Resounding Win
It’s hard to dismiss Prates’ conviction: after all, his highlight-reel knockout of Leon Edwards showcased power, timing, and precision. To stop a fighter of Edwards’ caliber at Madison Square Garden, one of the world’s most iconic venues, is no small feat. Many in the UFC community see this resounding performance as the beginning of Prates’ breakthrough on the world stage.
While speculation swirls about whether Makhachev will be the next opponent, one thing is certain: Carlos Prates is a fighter on the rise, determined to take on all challenges and carve out a name for himself among the UFC elite.
