Ian Machado Garry faces tough test against Carlos Prates in Kansas City

This Saturday, April 26, 2025, UFC Kansas City will take place at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, marking the promotion's return to the city after an absence since April 2023. The main event is set to feature Ian Machado Garry, a talented welterweight with a professional record of 15-1, taking on Carlos Prates, who is currently on an impressive 11-fight winning streak. Machado Garry, ranked No. 7 in the welterweight division, has demonstrated considerable skill in the octagon, but will have to overcome a formidable opponent in Prates, who has a knack for finishing fights early. Recent performance data indicates that both fighters have been on winning streaks, which heightens the stakes for their matchup. This fight is especially significant given that Garry accepted the matchup on short notice, reflecting his willingness to take risks in hopes of rising in the rankings. Leading up to the fight, Machado Garry has won four consecutive bouts in the UFC, showcasing his dynamic fighting style which includes three knockouts. However, he did suffer a decision defeat to Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310, which raises questions about his vulnerability against a power striker like Prates. On the other hand, Prates, who boasts a total of four knockouts in his recent fights and has also earned performance bonuses for his explosive finishes, will look to leverage his power against Garry. Prates has been recognized for his ability to finish fights decisively, making this matchup a classic striker-versus-striker scenario in the welterweight category. Interestingly, the betting odds reflect a slight favoritism toward Garry, who opened at -125. However, as fight night approaches, the odds have shifted to Garry at -145, with Prates positioned as the underdog at +120. This fluctuation indicates the betting public's mixed confidence in Garry, particularly given Prates's recent performances. The bet percentages further indicate that Prates has garnered more bets at 56%, while Garry has attracted a larger portion of the overall money wagered at 63%. The contrasting betting behaviors may signify bettors' belief in Prates's knockout potential against a fighter perceived as having a somewhat reckless defense. With the fight set to unfold in front of a live audience and broadcast on ESPN platforms, fans are eager to see how this matchup will impact the rankings in the welterweight division. The outcome of this confrontation could very well pivot one of these men into title contention in the not-so-distant future. All in all, UFC Kansas City promises an exciting event as two of the sport's rising stars collide in a match that could define their careers moving forward.