Carlos Prates Speaks Out on Rumoured Conor McGregor UFC Showdown
Rumours have been swirling this week about a potential UFC comeback fight for Conor McGregor against Brazilian welterweight Carlos Prates, but the fifth-ranked contender has now publicly addressed the speculation. In a recent Instagram video, Prates revealed that he has not received any communication from the UFC regarding a bout with the Irish superstar, casting doubt on the likelihood of the matchup.
Prates Questions McGregor's Readiness and Predicts Violent Outcome
Prates expressed gratitude for fans mentioning his name alongside McGregor's, calling it a "huge honour", but he was blunt about the potential fight's dynamics. "To be honest, I think the fight is hard to happen," Prates stated, citing McGregor's five-year absence from MMA and retirement. The Brazilian welterweight, known for his knockout power, did not mince words about the expected result.
"Nothing against him, you know? But everybody knows – I know, he knows – I would hurt him bad. I would knock him out, so I don't think it's the right way to make the comeback of a huge superstar like him," Prates asserted. However, he left the door open, adding, "But if he wants to fight, I'm here, I'm ready."
McGregor and UFC President Dana White Send Mixed Messages
The rumours gained traction after McGregor posted on social media last week, "It's a no name up next for me possibly, folks [...] I ACCEPT. Send the contract, lads." He later deleted the post, and UFC president Dana White contradicted the claim, saying, "If it was done and he accepted it, I would announce it." McGregor returned to social media on Monday with, "Day 15 of 'I accept, send the contract.'"
McGregor, a former featherweight and lightweight champion, has been eyeing a summer return to end his lengthy hiatus. He has specifically expressed desire to fight at the UFC's unprecedented White House event on 14 June, but White indicated last week that the card is "built" and McGregor's next fight is not "done", making that prospect unlikely.
Prates' Impressive Record and Title Shot Ambitions
Carlos Prates brings a formidable record into any potential matchup. The 32-year-old Brazilian is 23-7 as a professional and 6-1 in the UFC, with his sole loss coming against McGregor's compatriot Ian Machado Garry in April 2025. He rebounded with two consecutive knockout victories against Geoff Neal and former welterweight champion Leon Edwards.
Prates emphasised his focus on securing a title shot, naming former champion Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) and McGregor as desired opponents. "I really want a fight that's gonna bring me the title shot – JDM, Conor McGregor," he said. All of Prates' UFC wins have come via knockout, contributing to an overall career knockout rate of 78 per cent, making him a reliable and dangerous striker.
McGregor's Troubled Comeback Trail and Injury History
Conor McGregor's path back to the Octagon has been fraught with setbacks. His last fight was in July 2021, where he suffered a broken leg in a second consecutive loss to Dustin Poirier. A planned return against Michael Chandler in June 2024 was cancelled at two weeks' notice due to a broken toe cited by McGregor.
As the 37-year-old Irishman seeks to revive his career, the conflicting messages from McGregor and Dana White, combined with Prates' scepticism, highlight the uncertainty surrounding his next move. Whether the rumoured fight materialises or not, Prates remains ready, stating, "I'm waiting for the UFC to send me something – any name, any place. I'm just ready to fight."
