Carlos Prates: Conor McGregor ‘probably wouldn’t come back’ after long layoff to fight someone who’s ‘knocking everyone out’

RIO DE JANEIRO — The UFC never called Carlos Prates or his team to discuss a potential clash with former two-division champion Conor McGregor, but the Brazilian also heard rumblings that “The Notorious” was offered that match. It’s clearly not happening at this moment, and Prates isn’t surprised.

Prates faces former UFC welterweight titleholder Jack Della Maddalena this Saturday in the headlining bout of UFC Perth. He told MMA Fighting he understands McGregor’s reasoning for allegedly turning down the offer.

“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.”

“He has his reasons for the fight not happening,” Prates added. “Now it’s time to move forward and focus on JDM.”

Prates scored violent knockouts over Geoff Neal and Leon Edwards in his most recent octagon appearances, maintaining his 100 percent bonus rate in the UFC with six knockouts and six $100,000 checks, and said “the expectations couldn’t be better” for his return in Perth.

“I’m training like crazy,” Prates said. “I believe this is the fight that will bring me a title shot so we’re going into it with the best possible expectations.”

The welterweight division is one of the hottest right now with contenders lining up for a shot at the gold, and Prates hopes to move his name one step closer with a win over Della Maddalena. Meanwhile, Michael Morales still awaits his next move.

Ian Machado Garry and Makhachev have also gone back-and-forth over a potential title fight in July, but Prates still feels he’s the rightful challenger if he scores another win over a former champion.

“I believe that in terms of media and merit, yes, they’ll give me the title shot if I win this fight against JDM,” Prates said. “My focus right now is completely on him, winning this fight and bringing that opportunity back to Brazil.”

Makhachev won a decision over Della Maddalena in November 2025 to claim his second UFC belt after an dominant run as lightweight king, and Prates welcomes the chance to be the one to dethrone him.