One of the UFC's standout fighters in 2024, Carlos Prates surprised everyone by revealing his future plans: to win the welterweight title (up to 77kg) and retire early. In an interview with 'Olhar da Luta', the Brazilian, known for his knockout streak, stated that he intends to end his career at age 35. That is, in just four more years.
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“If I get what I’m asking for, it will be three or four, at most. I don’t want to (defend the belt), but I can play that game, ask to stop, say that I’m retired and the guys say: ‘I’ll pay you to defend it’. Then I’ll go and defend it. But my intention is to retire at 35, to have a good time with my mother, wife and daughter. To be ‘soft’, you know? I’ve fought a lot. I have a lot of injuries. I like being here, coming every day, but sometimes I don’t want to be here to train. I like it, but I’m not going to be doing this for a long time”, he concluded.
Does Carlos Prates only have four more years left in his career?
Carlos Prates ' ideal world is already mapped out: to get closer to the belt next season, become champion in 2026, and then leave the sport. He reveals that he doesn't even think about defending the organization's title. The fighter, who has already accumulated several injuries throughout his career, reveals a search for balance between his passion for the sport and his quality of life.
“Next year will be good. I’m not expecting much to become champion next year. If it happens, great. But next year I would like to have two fights, against two good opponents. I’ll be calm so that in 2026 I can get the belt and ‘take the easy life’ (retire),” said Prates.
At 31 years old, Carlos Prates is ranked 13th in the welterweight division. The Brazilian, who began his MMA career in 2012, has a record of 21 wins and six losses. He defeated Neil Magny by knockout in November of this year.
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