Carlos Prates isn’t dwelling on not being the opponent for Conor McGregor’s comeback fight.
UFC CEO Dana White has said he feels optimistic about the “Notorious” one’s return to the Octagon. While the date isn’t confirmed, the UFC boss admitted to reporters that International Fight Week sounds like a good window. McGregor likely won’t be meeting Prates in his first fight since 2021, given that Prates has a clash with Jack Della Maddalena on Saturday.
In an interview with MMAFighting.com, Prates said he isn’t surprised that McGregor decided against sharing the Octagon with him.
“I didn’t put too much expectation on it, you know?” Prates said. “I’ve always kept my feet on the ground. I knew a superstar like him, after being out for five years, probably wouldn’t come back fighting someone who’s been putting on great performances and knocking everyone out. Of course, if it happened it would’ve been cool, it would’ve been awesome, but my focus is on Jack Della Maddalena to get the title shot.”
Ultimately, Prates has shifted his focus on Maddalena, as the two enter their UFC Perth main event.
“He has his reasons for the fight not happening,” Prates added. “Now it’s time to move forward and focus on JDM.”
Maddalena is looking for a strong rebound win after losing the UFC Welterweight Championship to Islam Makhachev back in Nov. 2025. It was a one-sided grappling affair, and Maddalena is hoping to get himself right back in the title race.
As for Prates, a win over another former UFC champion would do wonders for his stock. The Fighting Nerds standout is already coming off a scintillating knockout win over Edwards. Can he pull off the highlight reel yet again?
Will Carlos Prates ever get a chance to meet Conor McGregor inside the Octagon, or is that fight simply a bad idea? Share your opinion in the comments below.
