Carlos Prates showcased grit, power, and composure in his first UFC main event, going five hard rounds against rising contender Ian Machado Garry. While Prates came up short via unanimous decision, the bout revealed his ability to hang with elite-level strikers, even pushing Garry to his limits with a late-fight surge that nearly turned the tide. Despite the loss, Prates’ stock rose as he proved himself a dangerous and exciting force in the welterweight division.

The logical next step for Carlos Prates is a matchup with Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson. Currently ranked #11 in the division, Thompson is a veteran striker known for his elite kickboxing skills and experience against the division’s best. While Thompson is coming off two tough losses—most recently a knockout defeat to Joaquin Buckley—his name and resume still carry weight. A matchup between Prates and Thompson would pair two of the division’s most dynamic stand-up fighters and would offer fireworks for fans.

From a stylistic standpoint, this is a compelling matchup. Prates’ aggressive Muay Thai-based approach, with 16 of his 21 wins coming by knockout, makes him a constant threat on the feet. His recent KO wins over Neil Magny and Li Jingliang showcased his power and timing. On the other hand, Thompson’s movement, distance control, and unorthodox karate style could frustrate the forward pressure of Prates. If Thompson can keep the fight at range, he could nullify Prates’ power. But if Prates closes the distance and turns it into a brawl, he could overwhelm the veteran.

This fight also serves an important purpose for both men. For Prates, it's an opportunity to claim a marquee win over a former title challenger and climb into the top 10. For Thompson, it’s a chance to prove he still belongs among the division’s elite and bounce back from recent setbacks. The bout could easily co-headline a UFC Fight Night or feature on the main card of a PPV, given the name value and striking pedigree of both fighters.

Carlos Prates has made it clear he’s ready for big names and bigger challenges. A showdown with Stephen Thompson offers just that—a winnable, high-profile fight that could catapult him further up the welterweight rankings.

Last Five Fights (Carlos Prates):

1. Loss to Ian Machado Garry – Decision (unanimous), UFC Kansas City
2. Win over Neil Magny – KO (punch), UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates
3. Win over Li Jingliang – KO (punches), UFC 305
4. Win over Charles Radtke – KO (knee to the body), UFC on ESPN: Cannonier vs. Imavov
5. Win over Trevin Giles – KO (punch), UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs. Pyfer

Last Five Fights (Stephen Thompson):

1. Loss to Joaquin Buckley – KO (punch), UFC 307
2. Loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov – Submission (rear-naked choke), UFC 296
3. Win over Kevin Holland – TKO (corner stoppage), UFC on ESPN: Thompson vs. Holland
4. Loss to Belal Muhammad – Decision (unanimous), UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Daukaus
5. Loss to Gilbert Burns – Decision (unanimous), UFC 264

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