UFC 314: Who’s Next for Carlos Prates After Geoff Neal’s Withdrawal?

Carlos Prates, one of the UFC welterweight division’s fastest-rising stars, has found himself in limbo after Geoff Neal withdrew from their scheduled bout at UFC 314 due to an undisclosed injury. The fight, originally set for April 12 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, was expected to be a pivotal moment for Prates as he aimed to break into the division’s top 10 rankings. With Neal out and no replacement opponent planned for UFC 314, speculation has begun about who could step up to face the Brazilian knockout artist next. Below are three intriguing options for Prates’ next fight.

🚨| Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates is OFF #UFC314, per #UFCMexico broadcast. ❌

Neal INJURED. pic.twitter.com/8cjpMhZZHl

— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) March 30, 2025

Vicente Luque

A matchup with Vicente Luque would be a significant test for Carlos Prates and a logical next step in his ascent through the welterweight rankings. Luque, a perennial contender at 170 pounds, is known for his fan-friendly fighting style and ability to deliver highlight-reel finishes. Despite recent setbacks against elite competition like Belal Muhammad and Rafael dos Anjos, Luque remains a dangerous opponent capable of testing Prates’ striking and durability.

For Prates, facing Luque would provide an opportunity to solidify his status as a legitimate contender in the division. Both fighters are aggressive finishers, which promises fireworks inside the Octagon. Additionally, Luque’s name recognition and experience against top-tier opponents would make this matchup appealing for fans and the UFC alike.

Ian Machado Garry

Ian Machado Garry, another rising star in the welterweight division, could be an ideal opponent for Prates. Garry has been vocal about wanting high-profile fights and recently called out several ranked fighters following his dominant win over Neil Magny. A clash between Garry and Prates would pit two surging prospects against each other in a battle that could determine the next big name at 170 pounds.

Stylistically, this fight would be fascinating. Garry’s technical striking and movement would contrast sharply with Prates’ explosive power and aggressive approach. Both fighters are undefeated in their UFC careers thus far, adding extra stakes to this potential matchup. Moreover, Garry’s popularity in Europe combined with Prates’ growing fanbase in Brazil could make this fight a global attraction.

Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson

Stephen Thompson is another compelling option for Carlos Prates following Neal’s withdrawal. As one of the most respected strikers in MMA history, Thompson’s karate-based style would provide a fascinating contrast to Prates’ explosive power and aggressive approach. While Thompson has struggled against grapplers in recent years, he remains dangerous against opponents willing to engage him in striking battles—a category where Prates fits perfectly.

Thompson is coming off back-to-back losses and a fight with Prates would be an exciting clash of styles that could serve as a litmus test for the Brazilian’s ability to handle elite-level striking specialists. Additionally, Thompson’s star power and fan-friendly fighting style make this matchup appealing from both a promotional and competitive standpoint.

Carlos Prates has quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the welterweight division with four consecutive knockouts in the UFC. While Geoff Neal’s withdrawal from UFC 314 is disappointing, it opens the door for other exciting matchups that could elevate Prates’ career even further. Whether it’s Vicente Luque’s grit, Stephen Thompson’s elite striking pedigree, or Ian Machado Garry’s youthful momentum, “The Nightmare” has plenty of options to continue his rise toward title contention. Fans will eagerly await news of his next opponent as the UFC works to keep his trajectory on track.