Chael Sonnen is suggesting that he deserves some credit for Carlos Prates being scheduled to headline UFC Kansas City.
Initially, Carlos Prates was preparing to face Geoff Neal in April. However, Neal had to withdraw from UFC 314 due to an injury, leaving Prates without an opponent.
Adding to the event changes, Khalil Rountree Jr.’s fight with Jamahal Hill was also cancelled because of 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 and implies he had something to do with this.
Chael Sonnen Thinks He Influenced Ian Machado Garry vs. Carlos Prates Main Event
Following the announcement of the new UFC Kansas City main event, Chael Sonnen, a well-known UFC figure, quickly hinted at his involvement.
Ian Machado Garry accepted a short-notice fight against Prates, making it the main event and a significant bout in the Welterweight division.
In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Sonnen referred to Prates as a popular figure and indicated that he played a part in Prates getting the main event slot for the Garry fight.
Sonnen stated, “I urged the UFC to reconsider Carlos, believing they were underestimating his popularity.”
“I asked them to take another look, suggesting they were missing the growing fanbase around him.”
“So, while I might 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 this morning.”
“At the very least, even if it`s not because of me, someone acted on my suggestion to look closer at Carlos.”
“They should check social media and fan sentiment to see his importance. Now, he’s in a main event against Ian Garry. It’s going to be a great fight.”
The Prates vs. Garry match is set to be the main attraction, which is notable as neither fighter was originally on the card.
Garry May Target Colby Covington After UFC Kansas City
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 has not yet faced the veteran fighter.
Covington responded to Garry`s challenge in March 2024, suggesting Garry was afraid of him and his potential words or actions.
However, Covington seemed to avoid Garry during a near confrontation at a gym, suggesting he might not be as interested in the fight as he claimed.
Garry will aim to defeat Prates to prove his worth and persuade Covington to finally agree to a fight after a long period of back-and-forth.
