On November 9, 2024, Carlos Prates will step into the Octagon for the most significant fight of his life: a main event showdown with UFC veteran Neil Magny at UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Prates, who debuted with the UFC just nine months ago, has had an incredible journey so far, marked by rapid success and remarkable humility. Now, he faces the ultimate test against Magny, a seasoned fighter with a record-breaking number of fights and wins in the UFC’s welterweight division.
From Humble Beginnings to UFC Stardom
Prates’ journey to the UFC has been nothing short of a dream. Signed after a spectacular performance on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023, where he showcased his striking prowess by knocking out Mitch Ramirez, Prates quickly became a name to watch. UFC CEO Dana White himself compared Prates to a young Anderson Silva, igniting excitement for the rising Brazilian talent. Since then, Prates has delivered on that promise with electrifying knockouts over Trevin Giles, Charles Radtke, and Li Jingliang, each of which earned him Performance of the Night honors and put him on a fast track to this main event clash with Magny.
Despite his meteoric rise, Prates remains grounded. “Being in the UFC doesn’t dazzle me,” he shared in a recent interview. “I’m grateful that life took me to the world’s greatest organization, but if that hadn’t happened, I would still be a happy man.” He emphasizes that his earnings and success are more for supporting his loved ones than personal gain, saying, “The money I make is to help everyone who has helped me get to where I am.”
The Challenge of a Lifetime: Facing Neil Magny
Standing across from him on November 9 will be Neil Magny, one of the most experienced fighters in the UFC. Known for his grappling prowess and resilience, Magny has shared the Octagon with some of the sport’s biggest names, including Demian Maia, Rafael Dos Anjos, Carlos Condit, and Robbie Lawler. Prates recognizes the challenge but remains confident. “I respect him a lot,” he said of Magny. “But when we step inside the Octagon, it’s just business. I see myself finishing him in the third or fourth round.”
This fight presents a unique test for Prates, who has predominantly relied on his Muay Thai background to secure early finishes. However, against a grappling-oriented opponent like Magny, Prates anticipates a more strategic battle that will demand patience and endurance over five rounds. “Training for this one has been different,” Prates explained, noting the shift to five-round conditioning. “I’m a jiu-jitsu black belt, but in MMA, I prefer striking because it’s the fastest way to end a fight.”
A Family Man at Heart
Outside the Octagon, Prates is motivated by his role as a father. His recent fight in Perth for UFC 305 allowed him precious time with his daughter, who lives in Australia. Now, with UFC set to return to Australia in February 2025, Prates hopes to secure another fight Down Under and reconnect with his daughter.
“My daughter is there, and I want to fight there again,” he shared. “She took me to see kangaroos, and we had an amazing 10 days together. I want to go back, and now it’s in Sydney, which is exactly where my daughter lives.” Though his focus is firmly on his upcoming fight with Magny, Prates can’t help but look forward to this potential family reunion in Sydney.
What’s Next for Prates?
With 26 pro fights under his belt and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Prates aims to make a statement in his first UFC main event. Victory over Magny would undoubtedly propel him into the UFC’s official welterweight rankings, a milestone he is eager to achieve as he solidifies his place among the sport’s elite. The fight promises fireworks, with Prates’ explosive striking clashing against Magny’s gritty grappling game.
Will Carlos Prates continue his astonishing rise with another highlight-reel finish, or will Neil Magny’s experience prove too much? Tune in to UFC Apex on November 9, 2024, to witness this epic main event showdown live on ESPN+.