Carlos Prates Shakes Up Welterweight Rankings With TKO Victory Over Jack Della Maddalena in Perth
In a high-stakes clash of striking specialists, Carlos Prates delivered a dominant performance on Saturday night, securing a third-round technical knockout against Jack Della Maddalena. The main event of UFC Fight Night in Perth saw the Brazilian contender silence a home crowd at the RAC Arena, positioning himself as a legitimate threat in the UFC’s crowded welterweight division.
The bout, which took place on May 2, 2026, served as a critical crossroads for both fighters. For Della Maddalena, the fight was a return to the Octagon and an attempt to rebound from his previous title challenge. For Prates, it was an opportunity to prove that his rise through the rankings was no fluke. By the time the referee stepped in, Prates had executed a striking masterclass that left the Australian favorite reeling.
Turning Point: The Third-Round Collapse
The fight began as a tactical battle of distance and timing, with both men utilizing their reach. However, as the contest progressed, Prates began to find a rhythm that Della Maddalena could not disrupt. The Brazilian’s precision striking gradually wore down the Australian, leading to a decisive finish in the final frame.
The climax arrived at the 3:17 mark of Round 3. Prates unleashed a series of heavy strikes that broke through Della Maddalena’s guard, forcing the referee to intervene and award the TKO victory. The stoppage ended any hopes of a comeback for the local favorite and cemented Prates’ status as a top-tier contender.
For those following the welterweight landscape, this result is a significant pivot. While Della Maddalena has been a mainstay in the title conversation, Prates’ ability to travel into enemy territory
and dominate a high-level opponent demonstrates a level of composure and power that the division cannot ignore.
By the Numbers: A Statistical Breakdown
The victory further bolsters Prates’ professional record, which now stands at 24-7 in mixed martial arts and 7-1 within the UFC. His ability to maintain a high output while minimizing damage was the key to his success in Perth.
Della Maddalena leaves the bout with a professional record of 18-4, including an 8-2 run in the UFC. Despite the loss, his previous trajectory—which included a shot at the title against Islam Makhachev in November 2025—shows he remains a dangerous opponent, though he now faces a difficult road back to the top five.
| Fighter | MMA Record | UFC Record | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlos Prates | 24-7 | 7-1 | Win (TKO R3) |
| Jack Della Maddalena | 18-4 | 8-2 | Loss |
Tactical Analysis: Precision Over Power
The victory for Prates was not merely a result of raw power, but of superior distance management. Throughout the first two rounds, Prates utilized a disciplined jab and well-timed counters to neutralize Della Maddalena’s offense. By forcing the Australian to reset constantly, Prates was able to dictate the pace of the fight.
As the fight entered the third round, the cumulative damage began to present. Della Maddalena’s reactions slowed, and the gaps in his defense widened. Prates capitalized on these openings with a precise sequence of strikes that led directly to the stoppage. It was a clinical display of how to break down a world-class striker through attrition and accuracy.
Note for readers: In MMA, a TKO (Technical Knockout) occurs when the referee determines a fighter can no longer intelligently defend themselves, even if they are not completely unconscious.
What In other words for the Welterweight Division
With this victory, Carlos Prates has immediately shifted the conversation regarding the next title challenger. Following the fight, Prates did not mince words, openly calling for a title shot. Given the nature of the finish and the caliber of the opponent, the UFC brass will find it difficult to overlook the Brazilian.
For the division, this result creates a new variable. Prates brings a style that is difficult to solve—a blend of technical boxing and opportunistic power. His victory in Perth proves he can handle the pressure of a main event on a global stage, especially in a hostile environment.
Della Maddalena, meanwhile, must now evaluate his path forward. Having suffered two high-profile losses in his recent outings, the Australian will likely need a dominant win over another top-ten opponent to regain his momentum toward the belt.
Looking Ahead
The UFC has not yet announced a date for Carlos Prates’ next appearance, but expectations are high for a matchup against another top-five ranked welterweight. As the promotion continues to shuffle its title contenders, Prates has effectively jumped the queue.
Fans can expect official updates on future matchmaking via the Official UFC Website and verified social media channels.
Do you think Carlos Prates is ready for a title shot, or does he need one more win against the elite? Let us know in the comments below.
