Carlos Prates expressed skepticism about facing Conor McGregor in the Irishman’s comeback UFC fight, arguing that he is too formidable an opponent for McGregor to return against after five years away from competition. McGregor, the former two-division champion, is preparing for his Octagon return following a broken leg that sidelined him since July 2021, and has indicated willingness to fight a lesser-known contender.
While McGregor has pushed for a spot on the UFC’s upcoming White House card, he appears mostly focused on simply stepping back into the cage. Speculation grew linking Prates as a potential opponent due to his rising status and McGregor’s openness to face a ‘no name’ fighter.
Prates Throws Cold Water on UFC’s McGregor Matchup Rumors
Rumors connecting Carlos Prates to McGregor intensified after the Irish star posted a photo of the UFC welterweight rankings together with an announcement that he had agreed to fight a ‘no name’ opponent. Prates, currently without a scheduled bout and behind Ian Machado Garry in title contention, expressed doubt that UFC would pit him against McGregor, emphasizing that such a fight would be a poor matchup.
I didn’t get anything from the UFC yet,
Prates said in a social media video.
“I’m really happy that you guys are saying my name and of course it would be a huge honor for me to fight against him, I really want a fight that is going to bring me the title shot.
“That’s either JDM or Conor McGregor. But to be honest I think that fight is hard to happen because Conor McGregor is five years without any fight, retired from MMA and after five years he wouldn’t beg to fight against the most entertaining welterweight in the world.
Prates believes he would be a dangerous challenge for McGregor, stating that he could do serious damage to the former star. He doubts McGregor would choose to restart his career against such an opponent but said he is open to competing if the opportunity arises.
“Nothing against him, but everybody knows I would hurt him bad. I would knock him out. So I don’t think it’s the right way to make a comeback of a huge superstar like him. But if he wants to fight, I’m here, I’m ready, let’s see.
I’m waiting, UFC send me any name, any place I am ready to fight. But of course I want the title shot so Jack Della Maddalena, Conor McGregor? Let’s work!
McGregor’s UFC Return Initially Planned Against Michael Chandler
Conor McGregor’s much-anticipated return was originally scheduled for UFC 303 in June 2024 against Michael Chandler, a matchup that stirred excitement after the two coaches faced off on The Ultimate Fighter. The bout was set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with tickets already made available.
However, McGregor suffered a broken toe shortly before a promotional press conference in Dublin, forcing the cancellation of his comeback. Nearly two years later, the intended fight has still not materialized, and UFC president Dana White has indicated no plans to reschedule that matchup.
Despite this, when a fan commented on the Irishman’s recent training, suggesting Chandler as the ideal opponent, McGregor confirmed his preference:
“It should be that, yes.”
Implications for UFC Welterweight Division and McGregor’s Future
Carlos Prates’ doubts highlight the uncertain nature of Conor McGregor’s UFC return, given the long layoff and the challenge of finding the right opponent. With Ian Machado Garry positioned ahead in the welterweight title picture and Islam Makhachev dominating at lightweight, McGregor’s comeback is poised to greatly impact UFC’s competitive landscape if it proceeds.
Prates remains eager for a title shot, signaling he is ready to capitalize on any opportunity. Whether McGregor resumes against a rising star like Prates, or returns against a familiar foe such as Michael Chandler, the matchup will be crucial in defining the sport’s future narratives as the Irish fighter attempts to reestablish his legacy.
