Adam Williams presents his prediction for the UFC Fight Night fight.
Carlos Prates
Carlos will attempt to seize control of the centre of the octagon immediately, striking his opponent with lightning-fast combinations. He'll deliver precise single shots with his hands lowered, while simultaneously launching powerful high kicks. Prates will land numerous body kicks and target his opponent's knees. Then, the Brazilian will ease up on his footwork slightly, while intensifying his hooks and overhands. When Neil tries to clinch, Carlos will counter with a knee to the liver. With relentless pressure, he will prevent Neil from setting up a counter takedown. If Magny pursues grappling, Prates will aim to defend against the cage and possibly even toss the American, but he won't risk engaging on the ground.
Neil Magny
Neil's objective is to counter Carlos's attacks with sharp jabs while constantly threatening takedowns. Magny will employ frequent lateral movements and straight punches from the maximum distance possible, forcing Prates to advance recklessly. The American will prepare counter hooks and front kicks to the head, along with leg-sweeping low kicks. Ducking under one of his opponent's strikes, he will attempt a body lock takedown and leg trip. On top, Neil will try to tie Carlos up, preventing him from improving his position. For victory, Magny needs to maintain control over the Brazilian on the ground and dominate the end of each round.
Betting Odds
Bookmakers favour the younger, more aggressive fighter who has easily dispatched all opponents in his UFC path. The odds for Prates to win are 3/25.
Analysts doubt that the veteran can surprise his opponent with new tricks or outperform Prates in striking, and he won't have a significant advantage in grappling either. You can bet on Magny to win at odds of 6/1.
Carlos Prates vs Neil Magny Prediction
Neil can operate in various modes, but it will take time for him to adapt to such an aggressive opponent. Most likely, Magny will lose the first two rounds, and if he survives, he will figure out how to proceed. The American will rely on mobility and flank attacks, but Carlos is likely to outstrike him, being the faster fighter. It's unlikely that the Brazilian will be able to defend against takedowns for long or instantly return to his feet. However, in the first half of the fight, he has a good chance to hold his ground. Prates is the favourite, as his technical kicks and unexpected attacks can surprise even a veteran like Magny. Carlos cannot drag the fight out, so he will try to find a finish in the first or second round, making a bet on a total under 2.5 rounds look optimal.
