Chael Sonnen is hinting at his involvement in Carlos Prates being named as the main event for UFC Kansas City.
Initially, Carlos Prates was scheduled to face Geoff Neal in April. However, Neal withdrew from UFC 314 due to an injury, leaving Prates without an opponent.
Further changes occurred when Khalil Rountree Jr.’s bout with Jamahal Hill was cancelled due to Hill`s injury.
This created an opening for the main event on April 26, which was quickly filled by Ian Machado Garry agreeing to fight Prates. Chael Sonnen seems pleased, suggesting he had a hand in this matchup.
Chael Sonnen Claims Credit for Garry vs. Prates Main Event
Following the announcement of the new UFC Kansas City main event, Chael Sonnen, a well-known UFC figure, appeared to take credit for the arrangement.
Ian Machado Garry accepted a short-notice fight against Prates for the main event, a significant Welterweight division contest.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Sonnen described Prates as a popular figure and indicated he played a role in Prates headlining the card against Garry.
“I urged the UFC to reconsider Carlos. I believe they were underestimating his appeal,” Sonnen stated.
“I asked them to look again, suggesting they were missing the emergence of a developing fan favorite.”
“So, while I may not have directly caused this, I feel like I might have—because just two days later, Carlos Prates was announced for the main event against Ian Garry.”
“At the very least, if it wasn`t because of me, someone acted on my suggestion to delve deeper into Carlos`s profile.
“Checking social media and fan sentiment reveals his significance. And now, he is in a main event against Ian Garry. It’s going to be a great fight.”
Garry Potentially Eyeing Colby Covington Fight After Prates Bout
After his fight with Prates, Garry is expected to pursue a match with his rival, Colby Covington.
Garry challenged Covington after defeating Geoff Neal at UFC 298 last year, but they have not yet faced each other in the Octagon.
Covington responded to Garry in March 2024, suggesting Garry was afraid of him.
However, Covington seemed to avoid Garry during a recent gym encounter, possibly indicating a reluctance to actually fight him.
Garry aims to defeat Prates to prove his worth and persuade Covington to finally agree to a fight after a prolonged period of rivalry.
