Carlos Prates is choosing to address Ian Machado Garry`s pre-fight trash talk with actions rather than online arguments as they approach their headline bout at UFC Kansas City on April 26th. While not engaging in a war of words, Prates isn`t letting Garry`s jabs go completely unnoticed.
Garry had taken to social media to mock Prates about a previous defeat in China where Prates stopped fighting, labeling him a “quitter” and questioning his fighting spirit.
Prates stated that he anticipated Garry`s verbal jabs, considering it a predictable tactic for fight promotion. He mentioned his own busy schedule, filled with training, interviews, and fight preparations, contrasting it with Garry`s apparent free time. Prates understands the promotional aspect of such comments, acknowledging it as a way for Garry to gain attention and build hype for the fight. He considers it a normal part of the fight game.
Highlighting his recent success, Prates pointed out his four UFC knockout victories in 2024, each earning him a $50,000 bonus. He confidently predicts that Garry will ultimately be grateful to him after their main event clash.
Prates suggested waiting until after the fight to assess the situation. He emphasized the limited time remaining before the fight and the decisive nature of the cage door closing. Prates confidently stated his intention to win decisively and believes Garry will secretly appreciate the opportunity Prates has given him, highlighting that Prates chose this fight and essentially gifted Garry the main event spotlight.
Prates further emphasized Garry`s relative inexperience in the UFC main event scene, noting Garry`s four-year tenure with only one bonus earned. He contrasted this with the current opportunity for Garry to headline, earn more money, and gain prominence. Prates believes Garry accepted the fight on short notice primarily for financial reasons and recognizes the main event status as a significant career boost. Despite anticipating a victory over Garry, Prates believes Garry will ultimately be thankful for the financial and career opportunities gained from this fight.
While known for his knockout power, Prates clarified that Garry`s words haven`t fueled any extra aggression. His motivation remains focused on securing a victory in his characteristic style.
Prates explained he is not driven by animosity or a desire to inflict extra punishment. He views fighting as a business, emphasizing the financial aspect and his objective to win in a manner that maximizes his earnings and bonus potential.
Addressing the past MMA fight Garry referenced, Prates explained that he was not in optimal condition due to inadequate training leading up to that bout.
Prates detailed his difficult circumstances in China, including multiple kickboxing fights, an eye injury, and challenges related to training, diet, and the cold weather. He dismissed the past fight as irrelevant and assured that the upcoming match on the 26th would be a completely different scenario from what Garry might have seen in the old footage.
