Carlos Prates delivered a stunning third-round knockout of Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, marking his biggest win to date and vaulting himself into welterweight title contention.
Prates’ ruthless performance shakes up the division
Brazilian contender Carlos Prates showcased phenomenal striking and relentless pressure against former champion Jack Della Maddalena in Perth. From the opening bell, Prates cut off the Octagon, landing crisp combinations that forced Della Maddalena to the canvas before sealing the win with a thunderous head kick in round three. The victory not only avenged his own knockout loss earlier in his career but also positioned ‘The Nightmare’ as the division’s hottest prospect heading into UFC 330.
Makhachev’s warm congratulations and title implications
Watching from home, reigning welterweight champion Islam Makhachev was quick to acknowledge Prates’ achievement. The lightweight icon, who holds an unbeaten streak, took to X to congratulate Prates with a light-hearted “Good job Nutella cake” message—a nod to Prates’ unconventional diet choices during his UFC 322 weight cut. With Michael Morales and Ian Machado Garry rumoured as challengers, Prates’ ascent adds fresh intrigue to Makhachev’s first title defence, now expected to headline UFC 330 in Philadelphia.
Eyeing potential rematches and future foes
Buoyed by his Perth triumph, Prates has already called dibs on facing the winner of Makhachev vs. Machado Garry. Meanwhile, fan-favourite Ilia Topuria looms as a wildcard; if Topuria defeats his June 14 opponent, he could leapfrog contenders for a shot at Makhachev’s belt. Another name in the mix is Morales, who was briefly linked to the champion before Prates’ performance. As the welterweight landscape shifts, ‘The Nightmare’ might need one more blockbuster bout before challenging for gold.
With the welterweight division in flux and UFC 330 on the horizon, Prates’ knockout in Perth ensures he will be centre stage in upcoming title discussions.
FAQ
Who did Carlos Prates defeat at UFC Perth?
He scored a third-round knockout over former champion Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC Perth.
What did Islam Makhachev say about Prates’ win?
The champion congratulated Prates on X, jokingly calling him “Nutella cake” in reference to his weight-cut diet choices.
When and where is Islam Makhachev’s next fight?
Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight title at UFC 330 in Philadelphia, likely against Ian Machado Garry.
Could Ilia Topuria challenge next?
If Topuria wins his June 14 bout, he could move ahead in the rankings and secure a shot at Makhachev’s belt, complicating Prates’ path to a title fight.