On February 28, 2026, Renato Moicano ignited strong reactions across the MMA community after publicly backing Carlos Prates over Jack Della Maddalena in their upcoming UFC welterweight clash set for May 2 at RAC Arena in Perth. Moicano, known for openly sharing his views on high-profile fights, took to social media to predict a decisive victory for Prates, sparking immediate backlash from fans defending Della Maddalena’s record and abilities.
The announcement comes weeks after Jack Della Maddalena’s loss of the welterweight title to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322. Della Maddalena had pushed the submission specialist to the limit, enduring a full five rounds against one of the sport’s elite grapplers, showing resilience and technical skill. Meanwhile, Carlos Prates enters the bout with a knockout-perfect UFC record, boasting a 100% finish rate across six victories, including a stunning knockout of Leon Edwards in his last fight.
Comparing Styles and Records of Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates
Jack Della Maddalena holds an 8-1 record in the UFC and is recognized for his polished boxing combined with hardiness, navigating through tough opposition since becoming welterweight champion. Despite his recent defeat to Makhachev, Della Maddalena remains a formidable competitor who employs a mix of strategic striking and grappling defense.
Carlos Prates, a rising star ranked fifth in the welterweight division, is distinguished by his aggressive striking and finishing power. His consistent ability to end fights via KO or TKO has made him a feared opponent, earning him the nickname “The Nightmare.” Prates’ violent style and unrelenting pressure define his approach, marking him as one of the most dangerous finishers in the UFC today.
Fan Reactions Highlight Divided Opinions Over Moicano’s Pick
Moicano’s statement,
“Carlos Prates vs JDM mdfker about to get smoked”
ignited a wave of conflicting responses on social media. Many fans questioned his credibility, linking it to Moicano’s own recent loss to Islam Makhachev, criticizing his judgment in the fight analysis. One user wrote,
“Like you got against islam?”
calling attention to Moicano’s first-round submission defeat to Makhachev.
Other commenters strongly supported Prates, emphasizing his flawless stoppage record. One fan declared,
“That m— getting smoked would be JDM. Prates by violence!”
highlighting the respect for Prates’ knockout capability and momentum within the welterweight division.
Some fans offered tactical observations, noting Della Maddalena’s strength in grappling. A fan pointed out,
“for JDM to win I think he has to have a grapple heavy approach. I think prates is too good on the feet for anyone.”
This insight recognizes the stylistic challenge Della Maddalena faces if he is to avoid a striking war and instead capitalize on grappling exchanges where he survived rounds against Makhachev.
The comparisons between Moicano and Della Maddalena’s respective fights against Makhachev served as another focal point of debate. A critic reminded Moicano,
“At least JDM survived five rounds against Islam, unlike yourself.”
stressing the difference in durability and fight performance that influences fan perceptions.
National pride intertwined with criticism when another follower said,
“Stop picking Brazilians all the time sh—, you lost to Benny.”
referencing Moicano’s earlier defeat to Beneil Dariush at UFC 317, and expressing frustration over his consistent backing of Brazilian fighters regardless of results.
Implications for the Welterweight Division and Upcoming Fight Impact
The May 2 bout between Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates will prove pivotal for the UFC welterweight landscape. A victory for Della Maddalena could signal a return to title contention after losing his belt, proving his resilience and tactical evolution. Conversely, a win for Prates would propel him deeper into the contender conversation, reinforcing his reputation as a fearsome finisher in the division.
Renato Moicano’s prediction adds an extra layer of tension to this matchup, emphasizing the high stakes and emotional investment of fans and fighters alike. His backing of Prates, despite criticism, highlights ongoing debates around fighter potential, stylistic matchups, and credibility based on past performances.
As the fight approaches, the passionate discourse seen on social media underscores how deeply MMA fans engage with every prediction and result. Whether Moicano’s pick proves accurate or becomes fodder for his detractors, the fight itself will likely shape narratives in the UFC welterweight division for months to come.
Carlos Prates vs JDM mdfker about to get smoked
— Renato Moicano (@moicanoufc) February 28, 2026
