Short Description: Jack Della Maddalena targets an April/May UFC return, with high-stakes fights against Carlos Prates or others on the table for the former welterweight champion’s comeback.
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Former UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena is officially plotting his path back to the octagon. According to his head coach Ben Vickers, the Australian star is targeting a return date in April or May, with negotiations actively underway for what promises to be a pivotal comeback fight in a red-hot welterweight division. This strategic timing follows Della Maddalena’s title loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322 in November, a performance that left his team eager to rebuild momentum against elite competition.
While nothing is signed, Vickers confirmed that several high-profile opponents are being considered. The most prominent name discussed is the surging Brazilian knockout artist, Carlos Prates. Riding high from a devastating second-round finish of former champion Leon Edwards on the same card where Della Maddalena fell, Prates represents a dangerous and exciting stylistic matchup. A victory over such a highly-touted contender would immediately reassert Della Maddalena’s status and position him for another run at the title, while a striker-versus-striker duel would undoubtedly deliver fireworks for fans.
The comeback fight is crucial for Della Maddalena’s championship aspirations. Coach Vickers emphasized the desire to face a striker, allowing the former champ to showcase his skills and rebuild confidence after Makhachev’s grappling-heavy approach. Other potential dance partners like Michael Morales or Shavkat Rakhmonov have also been floated, indicating the UFC is prioritizing a quality matchup that aligns with Della Maddalena’s spring return timeline. As the welterweight landscape continues to shift, Della Maddalena’s return could be the catalyst for a thrilling series of top-tier bouts throughout the year.
Short Summary:
Jack Della Maddalena is eyeing an April/May UFC return, with Carlos Prates emerging as a leading candidate for this high-stakes comeback fight. The former welterweight champion seeks to rebound from his title loss and re-enter the contender conversation. This striker-versus-striker matchup promises major implications for the welterweight division and marks a critical step in Della Maddalena’s redemption arc.
