The Daniel Cormier Show - Carlos Prates on fighting Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Garry winner, BRUTAL TKO vs. JDM

Today’s check-in is with the one and only Carlos—come on in, man. The view looks great, and now I’m hungry for Brazilian barbecue.

Thanks for having me, bro. Barbecue’s ready whenever you are.

You’re riding hot after that Jack Della Maddalena performance. How are you feeling about where your career sits right now?

I’m happy, already back in training, and I truly believe I’m headed for a title shot.

Before Ian Garry, people saw you smoking and living loose; before Jack, it felt more low-key. Were you more locked in, and how do you balance the fun vibe with becoming champion?

After Leon, I lost control a bit and took two months off to party; for Jack I got eight weeks, stayed calmer, still myself but smarter. I learned fast—no more slipping or rushed camps.

Two elite strikers, but you made it one-way traffic. Did you expect that kind of dominance?

That’s how I pictured it, even if I sometimes wondered on my runs if it looked too easy. In the fight, I got right up after the takedown, felt complete, my corner said he was breaking, and I pressed while staying safe.

Those knees were nasty. When you watched it back, were you surprised how lopsided it was?

He’s tough—I even told him mid-fight I just want the title shot and he said keep going. I rarely rewatch my stuff; I’m proud, but I see things to fix.

Islam mentioned you by name. Do you think he sees you as easier than Ian Garry, and what have you heard about what’s next?

Maybe he thinks I’m easier because guys took me down before, but I trust my black belt and full game. I was told Islam vs Ian is next and I’ll fight the winner; I’ll wait, add new wrinkles, and I can be the backup if they need me.

People floated Michael Morales, but he looks huge, and Pereira’s cutting from massive numbers. How do you see those cuts?

Morales is young and big; me, I can lose about three and a half kilos the day before, but giant cuts aren’t for me.

Islam vs Ian—who wins? And who would you rather face for the belt?

I lean Islam, but Ian’s got the tools to beat him. For legacy I’d love Islam, but personally I want Ian back.

What’s a day like back home—training, beach, going out? Can you hang without getting swarmed?

No beach in my city and it’s raining, so I’m doing interviews, sponsor vids, training, and planning seminars; at night I’m easy—fans join the table and we all hang out.

Appreciate you, brother. Follow Carlos everywhere and subscribe to his YouTube—this is DC Check-In. Until next time, peace.