Islam Makhachev vs Carlos Prates (Via Getty)Carlos Prates has made his intentions clear after Islam Makhachev retained the UFC welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. Makhachev has already expressed his desire to fight again before the end of 2026. Prates now appears to be the leading contender for that opportunity. He posted an Instagram story tagging Makhachev for a potential fight at UFC 334 in New York City on November 14.Michael Morales is also in the race for the next title shot. However, Prates believes he could be the man chosen by the UFC. The Brazilian also revealed that he has signed a new long-term deal with the promotion. He now expects to face Makhachev next.Carlos Prates takes aim at Islam Makhachev ahead of potential clashBoth Carlos Prates and Michael Morales were present cageside at UFC 330. They watched Sualam Makhachev survive a tough challenge from Ian Garry and retain his welterweight championship. The Irishman came close to causing a major upset, but Makhachev once again showed his ability to control difficult opponents.Despite suffering cuts and bruises during the fight, Makhachev made it clear that he wants to return before the end of the year. He is also hoping to fight before Ramadan begins in February 2027.That timeline could work perfectly for Prates.The Brazilian has quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in the UFC. His knockout power has made him a major threat in the welterweight division. Morales has also impressed with his explosive performances, making the decision for the UFC more difficult.However, Prates appears confident that he will receive the opportunity. He recently posted a story on his Instagram tagging Makhachev for a possible fight at UFC 334 in New York on November 14.Previously speaking to Ariel Helwani on Tuesday’s episode of The Ariel Helwani Show, Prates revealed that the UFC has signed him to a new lengthy contract. He also indicated that the new deal could be followed by a championship opportunity.The Brazilian was also asked about Makhachev’s fighting style. His answer made his feelings very clear.“I think [Makhachev] is boring,” Prates said during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show.Prates explained that he does not enjoy watching grappling-heavy fights. He prefers fights that feature constant action and spectacular finishes.“I don’t like watching fights at all. Striking fights or some friends, of course, I like to watch. But especially if there’s a grappler fighting, I don’t like to watch. I like to watch people getting knockouts, a lot of action and things like that. It’s crazy because now I really like to train grappling more than striking, but I don’t like to watch grappling and fighters going to the ground and boring fights”, he added.Makhachev is one of the most accomplished grapplers in the UFC. Prates, meanwhile, has built his reputation around his striking and knockout ability. Their contrasting styles could make the matchup particularly intriguing.For now, the UFC has yet to officially announce Makhachev’s next opponent.