Chael Sonnen, a prominent MMA analyst, believes that the version of Carlos Prates who recently dominated former champion Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth would also pose a significant threat to Conor McGregor.
Rumors had circulated about a potential fight between McGregor and Prates in July. However, Prates himself stated that McGregor declined the offer. Sonnen, speaking about the hypothetical matchup, suggested that a 37-year-old McGregor, who has been inactive for almost five years, would have a very difficult time against a prime and in-form Prates.
Conor McGregor is anticipated to make his return in July during International Fight Week, facing Max Holloway. Meanwhile, Carlos Prates, having secured three consecutive stoppage victories, is reportedly waiting to face the winner of a potential welterweight title bout between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry, expected in August. Prates has expressed a desire for Garry to win, setting up a potential fight with McGregor later this year in Brazil.
Chael Sonnen’s Assessment of a McGregor vs. Prates Bout
During a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Chael Sonnen shared his perspective, stating that the Carlos Prates who “dog-walked” Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth would likely inflict similar damage on Conor McGregor.
Sonnen pointed out that athletes who have suffered significant leg injuries, such as Conor McGregor, and have been away from competition for extended periods, often struggle against formidable contenders like Prates.
While acknowledging Conor McGregor’s courageous mindset and willingness to take on any opponent, Sonnen suggested that if “The Notorious” could even last a few rounds against “The Nightmare,” it would be considered a victory in their potential encounter.
English Translation:
Chael Sonnen, a prominent MMA analyst, believes that the version of Carlos Prates who recently dominated former champion Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth would also pose a significant threat to Conor McGregor.
Rumors had circulated about a potential fight between McGregor and Prates in July. However, Prates himself stated that McGregor declined the offer. Sonnen, speaking about the hypothetical matchup, suggested that a 37-year-old McGregor, who has been inactive for almost five years, would have a very difficult time against a prime and in-form Prates.
Conor McGregor is anticipated to make his return in July during International Fight Week, facing Max Holloway. Meanwhile, Carlos Prates, having secured three consecutive stoppage victories, is reportedly waiting to face the winner of a potential welterweight title bout between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry, expected in August. Prates has expressed a desire for Garry to win, setting up a potential fight with McGregor later this year in Brazil.
Chael Sonnen’s Assessment of a McGregor vs. Prates Bout
During a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Chael Sonnen shared his perspective, stating that the Carlos Prates who “dog-walked” Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth would likely inflict similar damage on Conor McGregor.
Sonnen pointed out that athletes who have suffered significant leg injuries, such as Conor McGregor, and have been away from competition for extended periods, often struggle against formidable contenders like Prates.
While acknowledging Conor McGregor’s courageous mindset and willingness to take on any opponent, Sonnen suggested that if “The Notorious” could even last a few rounds against “The Nightmare,” it would be considered a victory in their potential encounter.