Carlos Prates might still have a shot at the UFC welterweight title, despite recent claims that the next contender has already been decided. Following his dominant third-round stoppage of Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, Prates declared that Islam Makhachev would defend his belt against Ian Garry in August. But Makhachev himself says otherwise.

"The UFC haven't informed me yet, but there's been a lot of rumors about me fighting Ian Garry next," Makhachev told Red Corner MMA. "Yet, I haven't talked with any officials about this fight. So, I can't tell for sure who is the next contender."

According to the lightweight champion, the welterweight title picture is wide open with multiple names still in the mix. "I've got three or four possible matchups. Kamaru Usman is also up there. Ian Garry, Morales, Prates. That's four contenders, plus Shavkat might be No. 5. They're all expecting a title shot."

Interestingly, Makhachev believes a fight against Prates would generate the most buzz right now. "I think Prates has got the hype now. He's talked about much more now. So, I think a fight against him would be the most interesting."

Prates, who holds a 24-7 record, suffered his only UFC loss to Garry, adding a layer of intrigue to any potential matchup. With Usman himself admitting he's out of the race, the welterweight division is heating up—and Prates should keep his gloves ready.