Erick Silva, one of Brazil’s most promising exports, last tasted defeat in 2006. | Photo: Sherdog.com
Welterweights
Erick Silva (13-1, 1-0 UFC) vs. Carlo Prater (29-10-1, 0-0 UFC)
Now, he gets Carlo Prater, a former challenger for the World Extreme Cagefighting 170-pound strap. The 30-year-old Prater had a productive 2011, winning four bouts in various promotions to earn his first shot at the UFC. With wins over the likes of Melvin Guillard, Carlos Condit and Spencer Fisher early in his career, Prater has plenty of experience against top-notch competition and should be able to test Silva in ways that Ramos could not.
A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, Prater is not likely end a fight with a highlight-reel knockout, but his transitions and slick submissions on the ground have finished many a fight. While Silva has earned seven of his 13 career victories via tapout, as well, he will likely want to utilize his nearly five-inch reach advantage to keep the fight standing. Prater is plenty durable, however, and will be a tough out there.
The Pick: Training with Team Nogueira is bound to keep a fighter’s ground game sharp, and that will be the greatest threat Silva faces from Prater. If he negates Prater’s skills there, his striking will be enough to get the nod from the judges after three competitive rounds.