Carlos Prates is choosing not to engage in a social media feud with Ian Machado Garry as they approach their UFC Kansas City main event on April 26th. However, he is not letting Garry`s insults go completely unchallenged.
Garry had taken to social media to mock Prates about a previous MMA defeat in China where Prates stopped fighting mid-match. Garry labeled Prates a “quitter” and questioned his “true fighting spirit.”
Prates stated that he anticipated Garry`s verbal attacks. He considers it normal behavior for Garry, suggesting Garry might have a lot of spare time. Prates emphasized his own busy schedule, filled with training, interviews, and fight preparations. He sees Garry`s trash talk as part of the fight promotion, aimed at gaining attention and hype. Prates acknowledged that this aspect is also important in the fight business.
Carlos Prates, who earned $50,000 bonuses for each of his four UFC knockouts in 2024 against notable opponents, believes Garry will ultimately be grateful to him after their main event fight.
Prates remarked, “Let`s wait until after the fight. We have nine days left before the fight, nine days until the cage door closes and the talking stops. We will handle it as it should be. And I assure you, deep down, he will be thanking me. He knows I accepted this fight. I gave him the main event opportunity.”
Prates pointed out that Garry has been in the UFC for four years and has never headlined an event, having earned only one bonus so far. He highlighted that Garry now has the chance to be in the main event and earn significantly more money. Prates suggested Garry accepted the fight on short notice primarily for the increased financial reward and the main event status. Prates concluded that even if Garry is defeated, he will still appreciate the financial opportunity Prates provided.
While Prates always aims for a knockout victory, he is not letting Garry`s words personally affect him or serve as extra motivation. He clarified that he is not driven by anger or a desire to inflict extra punishment.
Prates explained that his goal is simply to win in his usual style, which he believes is more financially rewarding and bonus-worthy. He views fighting as a business and aims to get paid for winning.
Regarding the MMA fight Garry referenced, Prates explained he was not in optimal condition due to inadequate training. He recounted being in China for a month, participating in two kickboxing matches before the MMA fight. He also mentioned a prior eye injury that hampered him. Prates described being in poor shape in China due to the cold, weight cutting, and inability to train properly. However, he assured that the upcoming fight on the 26th would be very different from what Garry saw in the past video.
Wesley Dunham