Ian Machado Garry clinched a unanimous decision victory over Carlos Prates in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Kansas, successfully navigating a challenging late flurry from his opponent.
The judges` scorecards reflected a clear win for Garry, with tallies of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46. This triumph marked a significant return to form for Garry after his defeat by Shavkat Rakhmonov in December, while for Prates, it was his inaugural loss in the UFC.
The Irish fighter demonstrated resilience, enduring a late surge from the Brazilian and holding strong until the final bell in a tense conclusion to the bout.
Garry (MMA record 16-1) asserted control over four of the five rounds, employing elusive movement, feints, effective wrestling, and unpredictable striking attacks. He later stated that he was unfazed by Prates` aggressive attempt to secure a fifth-round TKO comeback.
“I wasn`t hurt enough to not know where I was; I was conscious every moment. I know how dangerous that man is, and I have nothing but respect for him.”
— Ian Machado Garry
“That man hits like a truck. He`s been on a tear, but I told everyone what I was going to do — outclass him — and I believe I did that.”
— Ian Machado Garry
In his post-fight interview, Machado Garry also revealed an important next step in his career: he is set to be the backup fighter for the welterweight title fight between champion Belal Muhammad (24-3) and Jack Della Maddalena (17-2) at UFC 315, scheduled for May 10.
“My entire goal is to prove I`m one of the gamest fighters who has ever existed. I`ve got the fighting Irish in my blood, and this is what`s next for me.”
— Ian Machado Garry
Mingyang Zhang Ends Anthony Smith`s MMA Career in Co-Main Event
In the co-main event of the evening, Mingyang Zhang brought Anthony Smith`s storied MMA career to an end. Zhang defeated the former UFC light heavyweight title challenger by first-round TKO at 4:03, overwhelming the Nebraska native with a relentless flurry of punches and elbows before the referee stepped in to stop the fight.
Despite the decisive outcome of his final bout, Smith expressed profound pride in his accomplishments throughout an often challenging and up-and-down career.
“I`m just going to be grateful it happened. I appreciate you guys.”
— Anthony Smith
Anthony Smith concluded his MMA journey with 25 UFC appearances and 13 victories within the promotion. Mingyang Zhang (MMA record 19-6) continues his impressive streak, having yet to see the second round in any of his career victories, while Smith (MMA record 37-22) finished his competitive path on a three-fight losing streak.
