On May 2, 2026, Carlos Prates made history at UFC Perth by becoming the first fighter to stop Jack Della Maddalena at the UFC level. This stunning victory not only showcased Prates’s skills as a knockout artist but also positioned him as the new No. 1 contender in the welterweight division.
The fight unfolded in front of an enthusiastic crowd at RAC Arena. Prates, known for his striking power, faced Della Maddalena, who had previously held an impressive 18-fight pro winning streak before his loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322. The stakes were high for both fighters; Della Maddalena was defending his status as the No. 1 contender while Prates aimed to prove himself on this big stage.
As the match progressed, it became clear that Prates was in control. He continued landing stinging shots that left Della Maddalena reeling. The turning point came when Prates delivered a decisive blow that ultimately led to a knockout victory. This win marked Prates’s third consecutive stoppage and improved his record to 7-1 in the UFC—all of his victories coming by way of knockout or technical knockout.
This sequence of events matters significantly for both fighters involved. For Prates, this victory cements his place as a serious contender for the welterweight title and raises expectations for future matchups. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena’s defeat disrupts his momentum and raises questions about his next steps in the highly competitive welterweight division.
In addition to the implications for both fighters, this event highlights the growing talent pool within the UFC’s welterweight category. With fighters like Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards, and Ian Machado Garry also vying for supremacy, every match becomes crucial in determining who will ultimately challenge for the title.
The atmosphere at RAC Arena was electric, with fans celebrating a thrilling night of fights. It marked the fourth consecutive year that UFC has hosted an event there, further solidifying Perth’s reputation as a key location for mixed martial arts events.
Carlos Prates is expected to challenge for the welterweight title soon. His impressive performance against Della Maddalena has set a high bar and generated excitement about what lies ahead in this dynamic weight class.
