During UFC 325 fight week, Carlos Prates stepped up to defend Layla Machado Garry, wife of Ian Garry, after a media member posed an offensive question toward her. The incident arose at a press event, where a journalist asked Prates if he had been intimate with Garry’s wife, an inquiry Prates rejected firmly and respectfully. This show of respect has earned Prates public thanks from Layla Machado Garry.
The two fighters share a history, having met in the octagon last April when Ian Garry defeated Prates. Despite their rivalry, Prates’ response to the inappropriate question reflected his respect for both the Irish welterweight contender and his family. Layla Machado Garry expressed her gratitude for Prates’ stance on social media following the event.
Background on Ian Garry and Carlos Prates’ Careers and Recent Performances
Ian Garry advanced in the UFC welterweight rankings, moving from third to second place after Shavkat Rakhmonov’s significant injury sidelined the Kazakh fighter. Garry is positioned as a leading contender to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC Welterweight Championship later in 2026. This trajectory follows Garry’s rebound after his first career MMA defeat to Rakhmonov at UFC 310 in December 2024. Since then, he secured back-to-back wins, including victories over Prates and former champion Belal Muhammad, reinforcing his title contention.
Carlos Prates, the Brazilian welterweight, has also been on a strong run. After his loss to Garry, Prates has rebounded impressively with knockout wins over Geoff Neal and former champion Leon Edwards, showcasing his resilience and skill as a contender ranked fifth in the division. Despite their competition inside the octagon, Prates has demonstrated respect for Garry and his family, highlighted by his conduct at the UFC 325 press conference.
Details of the Exchange and Public Reaction
At the UFC 325 press event, a journalist’s inappropriate question to Carlos Prates prompted an immediate reaction from the Brazilian fighter. Prates responded:
“Where I come from, you cannot say something bad about somebody’s wife or family. They can kill you if you say…”
— Carlos Prates
This clear rejection of disrespect resonated widely among MMA fans and commentators, who appreciated Prates’ defense of Garry’s family despite being former rivals. Layla Machado Garry acknowledged the impact of his words on her and Ian, writing on Instagram that the defense meant a great deal to them personally.
“This means the world to us. To stand…”
— Layla Machado Garry
These exchanges highlighted the importance of mutual respect within the sport, even among fierce competitors, and contributed to a broader conversation about professionalism and common decency during media interactions.
Potential for a Rematch Between Garry and Prates in 2026
Both Ian Garry and Carlos Prates remain among the top contenders in the UFC welterweight division, creating scenarios where their paths could cross again. Garry, now ranked second, is expected to challenge Islam Makhachev for the title, while Prates sits closely behind at fifth and may soon contend for a title eliminator.
If Garry captures the welterweight championship, a rematch against Prates could become a highly anticipated event, particularly if Prates secures victories over other top contenders such as Kamaru Usman, Michael Morales, or Jack Della Maddalena. The pair’s history, combined with their recent success, sets the stage for a potential second encounter.
Despite their previous rivalry, the two fighters have reportedly developed a respectful relationship, training together on occasion, though business considerations would play a primary role in scheduling any rematch. As both athletes are still early in their careers, opportunities for them to meet again are likely, whether later this year or further into the future.
Significance of Mutual Respect Amid Rivalry and What to Expect Next
The interaction at UFC 325 underlines how respect and professionalism endure beneath the competitive surface of MMA. Carlos Prates’ defense of Layla Machado Garry sends a message about maintaining decency regardless of rivalry, a stance that has been publicly appreciated by Ian Garry’s wife. This gesture not only elevates the sportsmanship between the fighters but also influences the public perception of the welterweight division’s culture.
Looking ahead, fans will watch closely how the welterweight title picture unfolds. Ian Garry’s push toward Islam Makhachev’s belt and Prates’ hunt for another high-profile win keep the possibility of their second meeting alive and increasing in significance. Whether it happens for the championship or as a major eliminator, a Garry vs. Prates rematch would be a key moment in the division’s ongoing rivalry landscape.
Ian Garry’s wife has publicly thanked Carlos Prates for defending her after a fan asked him “how many times have you f**ked Ian Garry’s wife?” 🤝
🗣️ Carlos Prates: “Where I come from, you cannot say something bad about somebody’s wife or family. They can kill you if you say… pic.twitter.com/oHmUCdIwt4
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) February 3, 2026
Ian Garry’s wife thanks Carlos Prates for defending her:
Carlos Prates: “Where I come from, you cannot say something bad about somebody’s wife or family. They can ki** you if you say something about somebody’s family.”
Layla Machado Garry: “This means the world to us. To stand… pic.twitter.com/UzJw4WT3sc
— MMA UNCENSORED (@MMAUNCENSORED1) February 4, 2026
Ian Garry’s wife thanking Carlos Prates for sticking up for them after that inappropriate fan comment
Respect 🫡 pic.twitter.com/2d9vm9RC8K
— ape (@qpe) February 3, 2026
