MMA - UFC #322
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by Bill Christy | in UFC Picks
In the 1st of 3 incredible welterweight matchups of this main card, Leon Edwards (22-5) will take on Carlos Prates (22-7) and try to avoid the dreaded 3 fight losing slide. Leon was living his best life from 2019-2023. He rose in the ranks and highlighted things with the infamous head kick that knocked out Kamura Usman and gave Leon the title. He defended that title successfully in the rematch with Usman and again against Colby Covington. He then faced an uber hungry Belal Muhammad who took the belt and then an up-and-coming Sean Brady who completely dominated him in his home country in his last fight. Many are beginning to write off Leon which could give him a big chip on his shoulder in this matchup with Prates. Over the last 5 years, that may not have been a more exciting fighter than Carlos Prates. He faced 12 fighters during that stretch and won 11 of those fights. All 11 came via KO/TKO with none reaching the 3rd round. His only loss came via Ian Machado Garry, who posed a very tough matchup due to his height and style. It will be no shock that Prates will be looking to overwhelm Edwards early and continue his finishing ways.Limited Offer. Currently at DraftKings
Leon Edwards - Carlos Prates Key Points
- Edwards is 0-2 in his last 2 fights.
- Edwards has a 4in reach disadvantage in this fight.
- Prates is 12-1 in his last 13 fights.
- Prates has finished 20 of his 22 opponents in his wins.
Limited Offer. Currently at DraftKings
Our Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates Prediction
This matchup is an ugly one for Edwards. We feel like he needed a matchup where he could fight at a slower pace where he is more comfortable finding his way to set up his shots. Prates is simply not going to allow him to do that. We expect Prates to overwhelm Edwards with his pressure and would not be surprised if he is able to finish Edwards early in this one. To be safe, we are going to Prates to simply win but would not be averse to play him to win by KO/TKO.
Our prediction for Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates: Carlos Prates to win
All tips are fully researched and given in good faith, but profits cannot be guaranteed.
