Carlos Diego Ferreira Sees Win Over Carlo Prater as Latest Step in Long Walk to the Top

In just two short years, Carlos Diego Ferreira has become one of the top lightweight prospects in Texas.

Most recently, Ferreira headlined Legacy FC 20 in Corpus Christi on May 31 and outshined UFC veteran Carlo Prater en route to a unanimous decision victory in the evening’s main event.

“I did what I was supposed to do,” said Ferreira. “I wanted to exchange a little bit and try out my stand-up and I wanted to see if I had improved my game or I had to go to the ground. I did good with all of my (skills) and I really liked my performance this time.”

Heading into his first major headlining spot on live television could have intimidated a fighter with just six bouts of experience going in, but not so for Ferreira.

“I really don’t think about it,” he said. “When I get inside the cage, I really don’t think about anything. I really like to turn off everything and concentrate on the fight.

“I was excited to be on TV, but it wasn’t really any different than the events that I have been on.”

While his mindset might not have been different, Ferreira told MMAWeekly.com that getting a chance to be part of Legacy has helped him expand greatly from his home base in Southern Texas.

“I have a lot of fans here in the valley, but when I go to Corpus Christi, a few guys I know go, some of my fans, but being on TV helps a lot,” he said. “It helps get me exposure and I really like to be on TV and show my work.”

Even with enhanced exposure and a win over a well-known opponent, Ferreira refuses to let things go to his head because he knows he still has a way to go to reach his goal.

“It feels pretty good, and I know Carlo is a really awesome fighter, but I think I have many more people I have to fight and beat,” said Ferreira. “I don’t think now I’m the best.

“Right now I don’t have anything planned. Right now I’m going to the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships in California and then am going to spend time with my family. I have two more fights with Legacy, so when it comes time to fight again in Legacy we’ll see what comes next.”

Ferreira concluded, “I really want to fight the best and I know I have to fight better guys to get to the big events, and I know one day I will get there. I think this is the plan for me to take on the big fighters, the big names. I’m going to start training this week already and I’ll be ready for the next fight.”