Carlos Prates has quickly emerged as one of the most dangerous up-and-coming welterweights in the UFC, blending crisp Muay Thai striking with ruthless finishing instincts. With multiple bonuses and a reputation for highlight-reel knockouts, Prates has made an immediate impact in one of the UFC’s deepest divisions. These three fights best capture his rise.
1. Prates vs. Neil Magny – UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates (Las Vegas)
Prates delivered a breakout performance against longtime contender Neil Magny, stuffing several takedown attempts and dropping him twice before scoring a clean first-round knockout. The dominant showing earned him a Performance of the Night bonus and proved he could dismantle a seasoned veteran with poise and precision.
2. Prates vs. Li Jingliang – UFC 305 (Perth)
Showcasing elite timing and shot selection, Prates became the first fighter ever to knock out Li Jingliang, connecting with a sharp left hook after dropping him twice in the second round. The emphatic finish earned another Performance of the Night award and highlighted his ability to neutralize powerful strikers with superior accuracy.
3. Prates vs. Geoff Neal – UFC 319 (Chicago)
Prates delivered one of his most spectacular finishes to date with a first-round spinning back elbow knockout over dangerous puncher Geoff Neal. The highlight-reel stoppage earned him yet another Performance of the Night bonus and cemented his status as one of the welterweight division’s most explosive and unpredictable finishers.