Fresh off a knockout victory, UFC welterweight contender Carlos Prates has publicly called for a fight against former champion Jack Della Maddalena, positioning the bout as a clear pathway to his first title opportunity.
In an exclusive statement to MMA Fighting, Prates outlined his plan. With the welterweight title picture congested, he is targeting a high-stakes matchup to maintain his momentum. “If it’s not for the belt next, then give me a fight that gets me there,” Prates stated. “Fighting someone like [Della Maddalena], a former champion, is the perfect step. A win puts me right in the conversation.”
Prates, who recently defeated Leon Edwards, is specifically aiming for a spot on a major Las Vegas card in April 2026. The strategic callout targets Della Maddalena, who is coming off a loss and represents a top-tier name without the complications of an immediate championship rematch.
The Strategic Play in a Crowded Division
The move is a calculated attempt to navigate the UFC’s stacked 170-pound division. With champion Kamaru Usman potentially tied to another challenger, Prates seeks a definitive, headline-worthy victory to make his claim for a title shot undeniable.
“I want to be on a big show, in Vegas, and show everyone I’m ready for the top,” Prates emphasised, signalling his intent to fight for the welterweight championship by the middle of next year.
What’s Next?
The UFC has not yet announced its full schedule for the first quarter of 2026. Whether matchmakers will book the compelling Prates vs. Della Maddalena matchup remains to be seen, but Prates has made his intentions and his timeline publicly clear.
