BREAKING: UFC Set to Return to Perth on May 3 – Carlos Prates vs Jack Della Maddalena Rumoured as Headliner

Multiple inside sources have indicated to Australian MMA that the UFC is targeting May 3 for its highly anticipated return to Perth, Western Australia, with a blockbuster welterweight clash between Carlos Prates and Jack Della Maddalena expected to headline the card.

While the UFC has yet to make an official announcement, several well-placed sources have suggested that plans are already in motion for the Octagon to return to RAC Arena.

A Massive Return to Western Australia

The last time the UFC touched down in Perth was for UFC 284 in February 2023, headlined by Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski. The event was a major success, drawing a sold-out crowd and injecting millions into the WA economy.

Since then, Australian fans have been eagerly waiting for another numbered event on home soil.

Now, all signs point to May 3.

Jack Della Maddalena’s Homecoming?

If the rumours are accurate, Perth’s own Jack Della Maddalena could headline in front of a home crowd for the first time in his UFC career.

Della Maddalena has rapidly become one of Australia’s biggest MMA stars, climbing the welterweight rankings with his elite boxing, finishing ability, and composure under pressure.

A main event slot in Perth would mark a huge moment — not just for JDM, but for Australian MMA.

Carlos Prates Let It Slip?

Interestingly, Carlos Prates may have hinted at this months ago.

At a Q&A session in Sydney last February during UFC fight week, Prates reportedly mentioned he would be headlining an upcoming card — a comment that raised eyebrows at the time.

With these new inside sources pointing toward Perth on May 3, that statement now appears far more significant.

Australia’s MMA Boom Continues

With stars like Alexander Volkanovski, Robert Whittaker, Tai Tuivasa and Jack Della Maddalena carrying the torch, Australia has become one of the UFC’s strongest international markets.

A Perth pay-per-view headlined by Della Maddalena vs Prates would further cement Australia’s status as a global MMA powerhouse.

At this stage, the UFC has not officially confirmed the event. However, based on information from multiple sources, an announcement could be imminent.

Stay tuned to Australian MMA for further updates as this story develops.

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