The Ultimate Fighter: Prates vs. McGregor? Brazilian Contender Debunks Fight Rumors
The MMA world is abuzz with speculation about a potential showdown between Brazilian fighter Carlos Prates and former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor. But Prates is setting the record straight: he's not interested in the fight, and here's why.
In a recent social media post, Prates (23-7 MMA, 6-1 UFC) addressed the rumors head-on. He's a top contender in the UFC's welterweight division, currently on a two-fight winning streak, and he's not interested in an uneven fight that would likely end in a knockout loss for McGregor.
"A lot of you guys have been asking me about the Conor McGregor fight, and I haven't heard anything from the UFC yet," Prates said in a video. "I'm really grateful for the support, and of course, it would be an honor to fight against him. But I want a fight that will bring me a title shot. I'm aiming for JDM and Conor McGregor."
Prates acknowledges the challenge of making this fight happen. McGregor, 37, has been out of action since July 2021 due to a leg injury and subsequent surgery. He's been building his physical strength but hasn't returned to competition. Prates believes that a comeback fight for a superstar like McGregor should be more strategic. He's confident he could knock him out, but he sees it as a mismatch.
"I think that fight is unlikely because Conor McGregor hasn't fought in five years, and he retired from MMA," Prates explained. "He wouldn't be fighting the most entertaining welterweight in the world. I know I could hurt him badly, and I'd knock him out. But I don't think it's the right way for him to make a comeback. If he wants to fight, I'm here. I'm ready."
Prates' recent wins include knockouts of Geoff Neal and Leon Edwards, earning him Performance of the Night bonuses. He's eagerly awaiting his next fight in 2026, with his last bout against Edwards taking place in November at UFC 322. McGregor, on the other hand, is still on the sidelines, with no fight booked since his loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021.
So, while the internet may be buzzing with fight rumors, Prates is clear: McGregor vs. Prates isn't happening anytime soon. But the question remains: who's next for McGregor? The MMA world awaits further developments in this intriguing saga.
