UFC champion Islam Makhachev has once again expressed admiration for Carlos Prates’ fighting prowess and unconventional eating habits. Prates captured attention at UFC Fight Night in Perth on May 2, 2026, by defeating Jack Della Maddalena via TKO in the third round. The Brazilian fighter delivered a barrage of powerful punches, kicks, and elbows, overwhelming the favored local opponent in his home territory. The referee, Mike Bell, intervened after Prates landed significant leg kicks and ground strikes, securing Prates’ fourth consecutive knockout victory in the UFC.
Carlos Prates Achieves TKO Against Former Challenger, Earns Cake Shoutout from Islam Makhachev
Jack Della Maddalena entered this bout seeking to recover from his November 2025 welterweight title loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322. Makhachev had dominated that fight with superior takedowns and control over five rounds, securing a unanimous decision (50-45 three times) to retain the welterweight championship and extend his winning streak to 16. Prates’ victory over the same fighter now places him in a favorable position to challenge for the title currently held by the Dagestani champion.
Makhachev was quick to respond on X (formerly Twitter) following the event in Perth. He posted, “Good job Nutella cake #ufcperth,” playfully alluding to Prates’ well-known diet. This remark originated during UFC 322 fight week when Makhachev observed Prates consuming Nutella cake for lunch, despite the rigorous weight-cutting protocols. Prates has since embraced the stories surrounding his cake consumption, smoking, and drinking, incorporating them into his fighter persona while consistently delivering knockout wins.
During his post-fight interview with Michael Bisping, Prates declared himself the top contender and identified Makhachev as his next potential opponent. He boasts a 7-1 record in the UFC since his debut, with recent finishes against Neil Magny, Li Jingliang, and now Jack Della Maddalena. His sole defeat in the organization was a decision loss to Ian Machado Garry in April 2025.
Ian Machado Garry is currently positioned ahead in the title contention picture, with discussions ongoing for a potential fight against Makhachev at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. Although Prates lost their initial encounter, he is eager for a rematch for the championship after resolving other obligations. Defeating Della Maddalena, who was previously the number one contender, is expected to propel Prates into the top five rankings in the upcoming week.
Prates’ future path will be influenced by the outcome of the title fight. A victory for Garry would likely lead to their anticipated rematch. Conversely, a win for Makhachev would immediately open a pathway for Prates. Other fighters, such as Michael Morales, could emerge as alternatives if scheduling changes occur. Regardless, Prates continues to deliver exciting finishes, and his unconventional preparation methods keep fans highly engaged.