Carlos Prates (23-7 MMA, 6-1 UFC) had a busy 2025, competing three times and finishing the year with a 2-1 record. In November, he secured his second win in three months with a second-round knockout of Leon Edwards (22-6, 1 NC MMA, 14-5, 1 NC UFC) at UFC 322, held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
As the No. 5 contender in the welterweight division, Prates has not yet made his debut in 2026. Currently, there are no scheduled fights for him, but potential changes could occur in the second quarter of the year.
One of the most awaited events on the UFC’s 2026 schedule is set for June 14. This rare Sunday evening event will take place on The White House lawn in Washington, DC, organized by Dana White and the UFC team.
Carlos Prates Linked to Conor McGregor Contest at UFC White House
Among the notable fighters rumored to compete at this event is Conor McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC). Leading up to UFC White House, McGregor has expressed a desire to be involved in the event and even challenged Floyd Mayweather to an MMA fight.
With the UFC’s recent media rights deal with Paramount Plus, McGregor has asserted that his existing contract to fight with the promotion is no longer valid. While he attempts to secure an updated deal, he is also looking for a potential opponent for the June 14 event, and Carlos Prates could be his contender.
Carlos Prates Opens Up on Possible Fight vs. McGregor
Though Prates is flattered by the speculation about fighting McGregor, he remains uncertain about the matchup. He shared his thoughts on Instagram, stating, “Many of you have been asking me about the Conor McGregor fight. I do not have anything from the UFC yet. I’m truly honored that you mention my name. Of course, it would be an incredible opportunity to fight him.”
Carlos Prates Questioning McGregor Tilt at White House
Prates pointed out that it has been five years since McGregor last fought in the UFC. The last bout ended in injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 257 in July 2021. An anticipated fight with Michael Chandler was supposed to headline UFC 303 in 2024 but was canceled due to McGregor’s injury.
Prates believes that any matchup with McGregor would highlight a stark difference. He commented, “After five years, he wouldn’t return to face the top welterweights. I believe I would cause him significant harm in the fight.”
Final Thoughts: Prates Deserves Better Than Conor McGregor
While nothing is confirmed for UFC White House yet, the promotion must approach this event carefully. Including elite fighters, rather than relying on a long-absent McGregor, would best serve the UFC at this showcase. Booking Prates against McGregor could be viewed as a puzzling choice, given Prates’ trajectory toward championship contention.
