Carlos Prates stated his intention to become the next contender after defeating Jack Maddalena. Prates plans to challenge the winner of the August lightweight title fight between Ian Machado Garry and Islam Makhachev. The Brazilian contender believes a victory over former interim champion Maddalena would be sufficient to earn a title shot. Prates is looking to capitalize on Maddalena's credentials as a former titleholder to position himself for championship contention. The welterweight division continues to see emerging contenders making their cases for title opportunities.
