Machado Garry beats Prates at UFC Kansas City by decision after dominating early and surviving a late surge in a thrilling final round.
Ian Machado Garry defeats Carlos Prates at UFC Kansas City
Irish welterweight Ian Machado Garry survived a late scare to claim a unanimous decision win over Carlos Prates at UFC Kansas City on Saturday, further solidifying his rise in the 170-pound division.
Entering the octagon as a slight favorite at Nags.bet, Machado Garry controlled the first four rounds, out-striking Prates almost two-to-one while mixing in regular takedown threats.
UFC betting sites shortened the live odds heavily as the Irishman dominated early exchanges.
However, Prates turned up the heat in the fifth round, finally finding his range and landing a flurry of heavy shots that dropped Machado Garry to the canvas.
With Prates pouring on ground-and-pound, the Irishman showed his resilience, narrowly avoiding a stoppage and surviving to the final horn.
Despite the late drama, the judges awarded Machado Garry the victory via scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47.
“I was conscious every moment,” Machado Garry said afterward about surviving the fifth. “I know how dangerous that man is. That man hits like a truck. I wanted to be smart, nothing stupid, because that can happen in these types of fights.”
The 27-year-old also showed respect to his opponent, saying, “I appreciate he’s on a tear, but I told everyone I would outclass him, and I believe I did that. I have nothing but respect for that man, for what he and his team do. My name is Machado Garry, I want to see all these Brazilians go to the top.”
Machado Garry wasn’t done making headlines, announcing post-fight that he will head to Montreal to serve as the official backup fighter for the upcoming Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena welterweight title clash.
“My entire goal in this game is to prove I’m one of the most game fighters ever,” Machado Garry said. “I have the fighting Irish blood. Twenty-one days’ notice against Shavkat, 25 days’ notice against [Prates]. And in two weeks, I’m flying to Canada. I’m the official backup for the title fight.”
Muhammad and Della Maddalena are set to square off for the welterweight championship on Saturday, May 10, with Muhammad a firm -303.03 favorite at top betting sites to defend his belt.
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