Carlos Prates’ coach says Michael Morales won’t make it to Round 3

Carlos Prates is scheduled to fight Michael Morales for the interim UFC welterweight title at UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto. Prates' primary coach, Cristian Nogueira of Vale Top Team, revealed that the camp originally anticipated facing Islam Makhachev before the matchup shifted to Morales. Despite the late strategic pivot, Nogueira expressed full confidence that Prates will finish the undefeated Ecuadorian before the third round.

According to Nogueira, the preparation has transitioned from takedown defense against Makhachev to striking footwork directed by boxing coach Arthur Cesar. Nogueira noted that Morales tends to leave himself exposed by being aggressive, which he believes will allow Prates to secure a finish midway through the second round. The team aims to capture the interim title before challenging Makhachev for the undisputed belt later in the year.