Carlos Prates is aware that some fans have linked him to a showdown with Conor McGregor, and he has given a response.
McGregor had the combat sports world buzzing when he claimed to have accepted a fight with an unnamed UFC star in a deleted X post.
“It’s a no name up next for me possibly, folks,” McGregor wrote. “And as you know, idgaf. I ACCEPT. Send the contract, lads. CONOR MCGREGORS DEAL.”
Early speculation on social media was that the “Notorious” one was possibly referring to Mauricio Ruffy, who claimed he heard rumblings of a possible clash with McGregor. Soon, the rumor mill shifted to Prates.
Appearing on the “MMA HOJE” podcast, Prates poured cold water on the idea that he’s been approached to fight McGregor (via MMAMania).
“People are just speculating,” Prates said. “But officially nothing has reached us yet. I just want to fight, man. Obviously, my main goal is a fight against Jack Della Maddalena, a guy that takes me to the belt. But we’re open to possibilities.”
Prates’ momentum has been surging as of late. He’s 6-1 in seven fights under the UFC banner. The lone defeat was to Ian Machado Garry, who could end up being next in line for Islam Makhachev’s welterweight gold. “The Nightmare” last fought back in Nov. 2025 when he scored a scintillating knockout win over former 170-pound champion Leon Edwards.
As for McGregor, he continues to tease a comeback fight despite being out of action since 2021. The former lightweight and featherweight king has insisted he’s accepted fight offers, but UFC CEO Dana White told reporters that there would be an announcement if anything was set in stone.
Would a showdown between Conor McGregor and Carlos Prates be intriguing to you? Share your opinion and join in on the discussion in the comments below.