Neil Magny supports an interim welterweight title fight in the UFC to keep the division active while Belal Muhammad recovers from injury, and he is set to headline UFC Vegas 100 against Carlos Prates.
Neil Magny has been part of nearly every UFC era. With hindsight, he believes an interim welterweight title fight is needed while Belal Muhammad recovers from injury.
Magny faces rising contender Carlos Prates in Saturday’s main event at the APEX. A bone infection sidelined Muhammad from UFC 310 against Shavkat Rakhmonov. Now, the scheduled challenger wants to stay on the Dec. 7 card and fight for interim gold. Magny’s on board with this idea; the depth of the 170-pound division demands it.
“The interim title shot keeps the division moving,” Magny told MMA Fighting. “It ensures everything flows smoothly. There’s so much talent in this division, it’s unfair to keep it tied up. Belal’s injury is unfortunate, but for the rest of us, an interim shot is necessary.”
Magny has faced Rakhmonov before—Rakhmonov submitted him in June 2022. The veteran has battled or trained with most top contenders.
If Magny held the matchmaking pencil, he’d schedule an interim title fight. Meanwhile, Ian Machado Garry and Joaquin Buckley handle their business at UFC Tampa.
“Without an interim title shot, there’s a logjam at the top,” Magny said. “Who’s next for a title? Usman, Leon Edwards, Sean Brady, Jack Della Maddalena—all can make a case for a title fight.”
“An interim title is the right call,” he added. It keeps things moving and allows more contenders to emerge.
Magny knows he’s far from title contention—and that’s okay. He focuses on being the best fighter, mentor, parent, business owner, and person possible.
Whether facing Prates—3-0 with three finishes—or anyone else didn’t matter to Magny. He agreed to headline this card without knowing his opponent.
“It feels great to be here,” Magny explained. He reflected on different UFC eras—from SPIKE TV to ESPN deals. COVID era included! Grateful for it all.
“It’s a great opportunity,” he continued. Headlining in Las Vegas on Veteran’s Day weekend? Perfect timing! As one of three U.S. war veterans on the roster, representing means everything to him.
The stars are aligning for Magny this weekend. He’s ready to go out there and do his thing. Grateful for every moment of it!