Carlos Prates he debuted in Ultimate in February 2024 and, since then, has been making noise at welterweight (77 kg). Within a span of seven months, the Brazilian fought three fights in the most famous octagon in the world and won them all by knockout. The performance of the prospect from Taubaté (SP) not only impresses fans of MMAas well as his next opponent in the company: Neil Magny. Before leading the card of UFC Vegas 100 this Saturday (9) against 'The Nightmare', the American praised his opponent.
During the 'media day' of the event held during fight week, Magny minimized Carlos' supposed lack of experience in the UFC by citing the Brazilian's history in competitions outside the league chaired by Dana White and also in other sports, such as muay thai and kickboxing. Number 15 in the rankings and used to being a kind of 'fire test' for the division's prospects, the veteran guarantees that he is eager to measure up against the striker in the main fight based at the 'Apex'.
“I've been impressed (with him) so far. He has some really good kickboxing fights that I got to watch. He has done very well in his MMA career. Despite being a new guy in the UFC, he has 26 professional MMA fights under his belt. Then he's definitely a veteran in this particular sport as far as the skill set he brings to the table.. As much as I know he is predominantly a striker, I know he will also have very good wrestling defense, ground game and things like that as well. I know that I have a tough test ahead of me and I can’t wait to go there and deliver (a show)”, highlighted Magny.
Mutual respect
And the respect between the competitors appears to be mutual. In an exclusive interview with Ag Fight, Prates praised Magny's level of performance, calling it a more difficult fight than against Randy Brown – the opponent with whom the Brazilian was originally scheduled. Furthermore, the athlete highlighted that, in addition to representing a more challenging test, the American can bring a greater reward to his career, thinking about an eventual entry into the top 15 of the category.
