Jack Della Maddalena is plotting his comeback. The Australian welterweight targets April 2026 for dramatic return after losing his UFC title to Islam Makhachev in November.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Title Loss Date: November 15, 2025 at UFC 322 in New York
- Current Record: 18-3-0 with 12 knockout wins
- Return Timeline: Coach Ben Vickers targeting April or May 2026
- Potential Opponent: Carlos Prates ranked #6 welterweight being discussed
The Fall from Champion
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Della Maddalena suffered a comprehensive loss in his title defense at UFC 322. All three judges scored the bout 50-45 in favor of the challenger Makhachev. The performance marked the Australian’s return to the title picture after defeating Belal Muhammad at UFC 315.
The 29-year-old Perth native struggled significantly on the ground during the main event. After nine years without a loss, the defeat came at the worst possible moment, in his first title defense.
Message of Resilience
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Della Maddalena broke his silence via Instagram on November 20. He expressed gratitude to supporters while acknowledging Makhachev’s superiority that night. The post read: “Thanks to those always supporting, Islam is one of the greats and deserved to win.”
He committed to growth, adding: “I will learn and move forward.” The brief statement signaled no excuses, just determination to rebuild his championship aspirations immediately.
Road to Recovery
| Factor | Details |
| Recovery Timeline | Coach targeting spring 2026 return |
| Opponent Options | Carlos Prates among names discussed |
| Weight Class | Welterweight (170 lbs) |
| Recent Status | Former champion, 18-3-0 record |
Coach Ben Vickers revealed return plans to the media recently. The training team is eyeing April or May 2026 for the comeback fight. Several welterweight contenders are being considered for a suitable matchup to kick-start his climb back to title contention.
Eyes on Prates Possibility
According to reports, Carlos Prates, the Brazilian knockout artist ranked number six in the welterweight division, is among the names being discussed for a potential opponent
— MMA Insiders, Submission Radio
Prates owns a 23-7 record with 14 knockout victories. The Brazilian striker recently registered back-to-back wins, including one of his signature devastating finishes. A clash between Della Maddalena and Prates would pit two dangerous finishers against each other, providing immediate title implications.
Can He Bounce Back to Glory?
Della Maddalena overcame previous adversity to capture his title. Skeptics question whether he can return quickly and reclaim his spot atop the division. His wrestling and ground control must improve dramatically against elite opposition.
The spring comeback timeline suggests minimal healing time. Fans will closely monitor whether Vickers and his training camp make tactical adjustments to avoid the grappling defenses that cost him the belt. Will he be ready for elite competition just months after losing his championship?
Sources
- UFC Official – UFC 322 official results and judge scorecards from Madison Square Garden
- MMA Fighting – Jack Della Maddalena’s post-UFC 322 statement and recovery timeline updates
- Submission Radio – Coach Ben Vickers reveals April-May 2026 return target and opponent options
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