UFC 322: Edwards vs. Prates takes place on November 15, 2025 and features a critical welterweight matchup between former champion Leon Edwards and rising knockout artist Carlos Prates. Both fighters sit close to title contention, and a strong performance could move the winner into a title eliminator.
Leon Edwards
Leon Edwards (22–5, 1 NC) remains one of the most polished and well-rounded welterweights on the roster. The former champion has earned signature wins over Kamaru Usman on two occasions along with victories against Colby Covington, Rafael dos Anjos, and Nate Diaz. Edwards brings a complete skill set built around sharp southpaw striking, excellent defensive wrestling, and some of the best clinch work in the division.
He enters UFC 322 looking to rebound from consecutive losses, first against Belal Muhammad in a tactical decision and then against Sean Brady by fourth-round guillotine. Even with those setbacks, Edwards continues to excel with pinpoint jabs, well-timed low kicks, and smooth footwork that allows him to win long-range exchanges. His ability to slow down fights, control tempo, and stay composed under pressure remains elite.
Leon Edwards – Last 5 Fights:
Loss vs. Sean Brady, Submission (Guillotine Choke), UFC Fight Night, Mar 22, 2025
Loss vs. Belal Muhammad, Decision (Unanimous), UFC 304, Jul 27, 2024
Win vs. Colby Covington, Decision (Unanimous), UFC 296, Dec 16, 2023
Win vs. Kamaru Usman, Decision (Majority), UFC 286, Mar 18, 2023
Win vs. Kamaru Usman, KO (Head Kick), UFC 278, Aug 20, 2022
Keys: Edwards must maintain range, work behind his jab, and use intercepting knees and elbows to punish Prates whenever he crashes forward. His ability to stay off the fence and manage pace will be essential. If the fight becomes technical and measured, Edwards holds the clear advantage.
Carlos Prates
Carlos Prates (22–7) enters this bout as one of the most dangerous new knockout threats at 170 pounds. His explosive Muay Thai style has produced a series of violent finishes, including knockouts of Trevin Giles, Li Jingliang, Neil Magny, Charles Radtke, and a spinning back elbow stoppage of Geoff Neal. Prates carries a long frame with a seventy-eight inch reach, excellent timing on counters, and a diverse striking arsenal that allows him to end fights at close, mid, or long range.
Prates has recently added noticeable improvements in takedown defense and defensive footwork, which helped him succeed even in longer fights and main event slots. Although he suffered a setback against Ian Machado Garry, his ability to bounce back with high-level performances shows continued growth as a contender.
Carlos Prates – Last 5 Fights:
Win vs. Geoff Neal, KO (Spinning Back Elbow), UFC 319, Aug 16, 2025
Loss vs. Ian Machado Garry, Decision (Unanimous), UFC on ESPN 66, Apr 26, 2025
Win vs. Neil Magny, KO (Punch), UFC Fight Night, Nov 9, 2024
Win vs. Li Jingliang, KO (Punches), UFC 305, Aug 17, 2024
Win vs. Charles Radtke, KO (Knee to the Body), UFC on ESPN, Jun 8, 2024
Keys: Prates needs to pressure from the opening round, chop at the legs and body, and force Edwards into exchanges where his power becomes a factor. If he can turn moments of chaos into sustained momentum, the knockout opportunity will present itself. Prates does his best work when forward movement dictates the terms.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup revolves around distance control and discipline. Edwards thrives when he can keep the fight clean, technical, and paced around his jab and counter striking. If he can maintain that rhythm, he will likely frustrate Prates and score consistently from the outside.
Prates will try to break that structure with pressure, body attacks, and layered combinations that disrupt Edwards' timing. His finishing power is a constant threat, especially in the early rounds. The question is whether Edwards' experience and composure can neutralize the intensity of Prates' forward surges.
Prediction
Prates will have moments of danger early, but Edwards' footwork, defensive awareness, and ability to manage chaotic exchanges give him the tools to guide the fight into his preferred rhythm. Over time, Edwards should outland at range and control key moments in the clinch.
Prediction: Leon Edwards def. Carlos Prates via Decision (Unanimous)
A victory positions Edwards for another run toward the top of the division, while a Prates upset would elevate the Brazilian into immediate contender status.