UFC welterweight Carlos Prates admitted to smoking cigarettes before his bouts, a habit that is unconventional for a top-level MMA star. This admission came on the heels of his impressive liver-shot knockout of Charles Radtke at UFC Louisville in Kentucky, which earned him a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus.
Prates, known as “The Nightmare,” extended his unbeaten streak to nine with the victory, which was marked by a vicious body shot that sent the crowd into raptures. The knockout was one of several brutal finishes at the event, but Prates’ habit of smoking before fights has raised eyebrows.
In an interview with Full Send MMA, Prates revealed that he has been smoking cigarettes since he was 15 years old and continues to do so before his fights. “I think I smoke since I was 15 years old, I have more time living smoking than without smoking, so for me it’s normal,” he said.
When asked if he would celebrate his victory with a cigarette, Prates replied, “Yeah bro, I think I smoke… before the fight, on the day of the fight, you know, it’s normal.”
Prates’ admission has sparked interest in the MMA community, with many questioning how a fighter can perform at such a high level while engaging in a habit that is detrimental to one’s health. However, Prates’ ability to deliver devastating knockouts and extend his unbeaten streak speaks to his skill and resilience as a fighter.
Despite his unconventional habit, Prates is undeniably a force to be reckoned with in the UFC. His victory over Radtke marked his second finish in the UFC, following a win over Trevin Giles earlier this year. Prates’ performance has earned him a reputation as a formidable striker, and his ability to finish fights with brutal efficiency has made him a fan favorite.
It’s worth noting that Prates’ habit of smoking is not unique to him. Many fighters have admitted to vices and habits that might be considered unusual or undesirable by their peers. However, Prates’ candid admission has sparked a conversation about the complexities of being a professional athlete, where the lines between physical performance and personal habits can blur.
As Prates returns to Brazil to celebrate his victory with his family and friends, it’s clear that his unorthodox approach to fighting has not hindered his success. Whether or not his smoking habit will ultimately impact his career remains to be seen, but for now, “The Nightmare” is riding high on his $50,000 bonus and his reputation as one of the most feared strikers in the UFC.
