Brazilian welterweight Carlos Prates has made it clear that he's not dwelling on rumors surrounding a potential clash with Conor McGregor. While speculation circulated about "The Notorious" being offered a matchup against the rising knockout artist, Prates remains pragmatic about the situation and fully committed to his upcoming challenge.
The McGregor Offer That Never Came to Fruition
Despite hearing through the grapevine that McGregor may have received an offer to face him, Prates' team never received direct contact from the UFC regarding such a bout. Rather than viewing this as a disappointment, the Brazilian fighter demonstrated mature perspective on the matter.
Prates acknowledged that he understood McGregor's position without requiring explanation. "I didn't put too much expectation on it," he explained, demonstrating the measured approach he takes toward his career trajectory. The fighter recognized that while a matchup with a former two-division champion would have been noteworthy, it was never a realistic expectation given the circumstances surrounding McGregor's extended absence from competition.
Why McGregor's Decision Makes Strategic Sense
The Comeback Challenge After Years Away
McGregor's reported decision to decline the opportunity becomes understandable when examining the timing and context. After spending five years away from octagon competition, returning against a fighter in peak form presents significant risk from both competitive and legacy perspectives.
When elite fighters return from prolonged layoffs, they typically pursue carefully selected opponents who minimize volatility. A comeback bout against someone actively competing and delivering dominant performances represents the opposite strategy. Prates' recent accomplishments against quality opposition make him precisely the type of challenging matchup that seasoned fighters avoid during rehabilitation fights.
Prates' Striking Prowess as a Deterrent
The Brazilian's reputation for explosive knockout power undoubtedly factored into any strategic calculus. Recent victories over notable opponents demonstrated his ability to finish fights decisively, making him an inherently risky proposition for a fighter rebuilding his competition resume.
The Perth Main Event: A Defining Moment
Della Maddalena as the Critical Test
Prates' immediate focus rests on UFC Perth, where he faces former UFC welterweight title challenger Jack Della Maddalena in the event's headline bout. This matchup carries substantial implications for the fighter's championship aspirations.
Della Maddalena brings legitimate credentials to the contest, having previously competed at the highest level of the welterweight division. Defeating a former title contender would substantially bolster Prates' argument for title consideration. The fighter himself stated unequivocally: "This is the fight that will bring me a title shot." With this mindset, Prates approaches the bout with championship-level intensity and preparation.
Maintaining Excellence Through Performance
Prates has established an impressive pattern of award-winning performances in the UFC. His record includes six consecutive $100,000 performance bonuses, a testament to his ability to deliver engaging, dominant displays. These financial recognitions reflect victories that captured fan attention and showcase his combat effectiveness.
The fighter's training regimen reflects the significance he assigns to this opportunity. "I'm training like crazy," Prates disclosed, emphasizing his commitment to peak performance when the octagon door closes at Perth.
The Welterweight Division's Competitive Landscape
Multiple Contenders Racing for Position
The welterweight division currently features one of the deepest talent pools in the UFC, with numerous fighters legitimately positioned to challenge for championship gold. This competitive density means that strategic wins over quality opponents become essential for securing a title shot.
Prates recognizes the urgency inherent in this environment. Waiting for opportunities or accepting less-than-premier matchups risks being bypassed by fighters who compile more impressive résumés. A victory over Della Maddalena positions him among the frontline contenders deserving of championship consideration.
The Champion's Throne and Ultimate Prize
Currently, Islam Makhachev holds the welterweight championship following his recent dominant victory and maintains his status as the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the sport. Dethroning such an accomplished champion represents the ultimate career achievement for any welterweight.
Prates recognizes both the magnitude of this opportunity and its career-defining implications. "It would be incredible to fight him," Prates stated, acknowledging Makhachev's elite status. The prospect of becoming the fighter who dethrones the pound-for-pound king would cement Prates' legacy and elevate his standing considerably within the sport.
Building Momentum: The Road to Championship Consideration
Strategic Victories Against Notable Opposition
Prates' recent performances against Geoff Neal and Leon Edwards demonstrated his ability to execute against established competition. These victories provided the foundation for his current positioning within the title picture. Each victory carried the weight of quality opposition, meaning his resumé reflects competitive depth rather than manufactured ranking advancement.
The combination of performance bonuses and knockout victories establishes Prates as a fighter who delivers both entertainment value and undeniable competitive results. This dual credential strengthens his position when merit-based arguments for title opportunities arise.
Earning Rather Than Requesting Opportunity
Prates maintains a clear philosophy regarding his path forward: merit should determine title shot allocation. He expressed confidence that victory over Della Maddalena would compel the UFC to grant him championship consideration, citing both media recognition and objective performance metrics.
This approach reflects maturity and professional focus. Rather than engaging in negotiation or public campaigning, Prates concentrates on performing at levels that make title consideration inevitable. The Perth bout represents the stage where he intends to deliver such a performance.