Carlos Prates has revealed that one of his former Fighting Nerds teammates used to give him serious problems during training, despite competing in a lower weight class.
The top UFC welterweight opened up about his training sessions with Mauricio Ruffy, admitting that he struggled to defend against his teammate’s fast, precise striking.
“Ruffy used to beat me up a lot, too much it’s crazy. I put up my guard and his hands passed my defence. Ruffy is just that good,” Prates said, via Ag Fight.
The revelation is particularly notable because Prates competes at welterweight, while Mauricio Ruffy fights at lightweight.
Carlos Prates Admits Mauricio Ruffy Was Too Much In Training
Carlos Prates’ comments paint a picture of just how competitive the training environment at Fighting Nerds can be. Even with the natural size advantage that comes with competing at 170 pounds, Prates admitted that Ruffy could consistently find his way through his defense.
The Brazilian welterweight is known for his aggressive striking and knockout power, making the admission even more impressive. If Ruffy could regularly get through the guard of a larger fighter like Prates during training, it highlights the level of speed and technique he possesses.
Ruffy has quickly established himself as one of the UFC’s most exciting lightweight prospects, and he now has an opportunity to take a major step toward title contention. He is scheduled to face Arman Tsarukyan next month in the co-main event of UFC 331.
The matchup represents a huge test for Ruffy, with Tsarukyan regarded as one of the division’s elite contenders. A victory would put Ruffy in an excellent position for a shot at the lightweight championship.
If Ruffy gets past Tsarukyan, he is expected to be in the conversation for a title fight against reigning UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje.
Meanwhile, Prates appears to be heading toward a massive opportunity of his own.
Carlos Prates Could Fight Islam Makhachev Next
Carlos Prates will most likely fight UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev next. The two-division champion defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 to defend his title and has now shown interest in fighting top contender Prates, whom he considers a worthy title challenger.
Meanwhile, ‘The Nightmare’ believes he will knock out the Russian champion and has also promised his people that he will bring the UFC belt to Brazil once he puts Makhachev to sleep.
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