Carlos Prates, a rising star in the UFC`s welterweight division, quickly became a fan favorite in 2024. His second major appearance is scheduled just days from now as the UFC arrives in Kansas City on April 26.
Prates is set to return to the Octagon, continuing a nearly perfect UFC run. Known for his exciting striking style, Prates is scheduled to face another top contender in the 170-pound class, aiming to address criticisms made by Ian Machado Garry.
Given his dynamic fighting and charisma, `The Nightmare` has rapidly gained popularity, similar to his Fighting Nerds teammate Jean Silva.
The powerful Brazilian striker recently decided to give back to his supporters after receiving a heartfelt message just before fight week.
Carlos Prates Fulfills Fan`s Wish, Shaving Head of Cancer Patient
Before his fifth appearance in the Octagon this Saturday, Prates took time for a special encounter.
A fan contacted `The Nightmare` on social media with a unique request for the fighter during his brief visit before the April 26 event.
Randy, a Kansas City local, messaged Prates explaining he would attend the event as Prates was his favorite fighter.
He also shared his terminal cancer diagnosis and expressed that it would be an honor if Prates could meet him and personally shave his head.
The rising welterweight star not only agreed but also welcomed the fan into the `Fighting Nerds` team by giving him a spare pair of glasses.
The UFC released a video of the interaction where Prates shared his thoughts on the experience:
“I’m here with Randy, he’s teaching me a lot this week. Sometimes we have to learn. We usually complain a lot about any little thing that happens in our lives and this guy is here after a terminal cancer diagnosis. He texted me to shave his head because I’m his favorite fighter and man, we can see that our problems are nothing and this man is here. He’s standing, he came here and said he won’t give up and I think that’s what we have to keep as a life lesson to never give up just like he’s doing, fighting against this disease. That’s a very tough one but I’m sure he’ll be fine. He’ll get better and I hope in a couple of months, I can come back here and see him.”
Fans Commend Carlos Prates for Heartwarming Fan Interaction
Prates was already popular among fans, and this incredibly touching gesture further boosted his standing before his Kansas City fight.
The 31-year-old fighter received widespread praise on social media, with comments including “God bless him” and “That’s amazing Carlos is a great guy.”
One commenter recalled Randy`s message, mentioning he offered Prates a pack of cigarettes in exchange for the favor.
“Randy has a hell of a sense of humor giving Prates a pack of smokes & good for him. It’ll serve him well in his fight with cancer. What a legend.”
