Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates are scheduled to face off in a key welterweight bout headlining UFC Perth on May 2 at RAC Arena in Australia. This much-anticipated 170-pound contest marks Maddalena’s return to the Octagon following his defeat at UFC 322 in November 2025 and aims to set the tone for his comeback.
Maddalena’s Comeback after Title Loss
Maddalena, the former UFC Welterweight Champion, suffered a decisive loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322, leaving fans and analysts questioning his next move. Eager to redeem himself, Maddalena will look to prove he remains a dominant force in the division when he steps into the cage against Prates. Before the fight with Prates was confirmed, Maddalena had expressed interest in sharing the Octagon with Shavkat Rakhmonov but acknowledged uncertainty around that matchup’s timing.
I don’t know. I would like to fight Shavkat Rakhmonov. I’ve always wanted to fight him, but whether that happens or not, I don’t know. … That’s the fight. That’s a fight.
— Jack Della Maddalena
He also mentioned other potential opponents, including Michael Morales, before the Prates fight was finalized.
Otherwise, maybe Michael Morales or Carlos Prates, one of those guys,
— Jack Della Maddalena
Prates Clarifies Fight Plans Amid McGregor Rumors
Carlos Prates recently addressed speculation regarding a possible showdown with UFC superstar Conor McGregor. Prates dismissed these rumors and emphasized that his primary objective is to compete against Maddalena, viewing it as a critical step toward title contention.
People are just speculating, but officially nothing has reached us yet. I just want to fight, man. Obviously, my main goal is a fight against Jack Della Maddalena, a guy that takes me to the belt. But we’re open to possibilities.
— Carlos Prates
Event Significance and Future Implications
This showdown between Maddalena and Prates represents more than just a routine matchup; it carries the weight of a pivotal moment for both fighters aiming to redefine their standing in the welterweight division. The outcome could influence future main event bookings and title opportunities while energizing UFC’s return to Australia after a period of anticipation. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how this clash unfolds, as it may signal the next chapter in the rivalry landscape of the UFC welterweight class.
A PERFECT FIGHT for Perth 🦘
Jack Della Maddalena vs @TheNightmare170 headlines UFC's return to Australia!
[ #UFCPerth | LIVE MAY 2 on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/ALIFh8Z80r
— UFC (@ufc) February 28, 2026
