McGregor vs. Prates? Rumor Shakes Up the Welterweight Division

One of the biggest talking points in MMA right now is the potential return of the sport’s biggest star: Conor McGregor.

The former two-division champion has been out of action since suffering a leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. But last week, McGregor reignited speculation with a cryptic post on X:

“It’s a no name up next to me possibly… Send the contract, lads.”

A “no name”? That phrase immediately sparked debate — and suddenly, the name Carlos Prates started gaining traction.

“Something Very Big Is Coming”

Days before McGregor’s post, Prates’ coach Flavio Alvaro hinted in an interview that a massive fight announcement was coming soon — though he couldn’t reveal details.

Shortly after, Prates himself posted:

“I was told the offer is in your hands. The fans are waiting, I’m waiting… Are we doing this or just playing around? Let’s give them fight of the year. Sign the contract.”

That message poured fuel on the fire.

Does This Fight Make Sense?

Brazilian journalist Renato Rebello believes the matchup is unlikely.

According to his sources:

McGregor initially pushed for Michael Chandler

Then reportedly asked for Dan Ige

The UFC instead offered him an elite welterweight

Rebello argues that a five-year layoff makes a fight with Prates risky and illogical:

Prates is younger

Bigger at 170

In his physical prime

One of the sharpest strikers in the division

He also points out that the UFC is no longer financially dependent on McGregor’s pay-per-view power. In his view, the leverage now belongs to the promotion — not Conor.

Gilbert Burns Sees It Differently

Gilbert Burns, however, believes the fight makes sense.

He sees it as a symbolic “passing of the torch” moment. The UFC has shown interest in building Prates, who has momentum and charisma. A win over McGregor would instantly elevate him into title contention.

Burns even predicts that Prates would win — and then fight for the belt in a mega showdown.