Carlos Prates Calls for Welterweight Title Shot After UFC Perth Win

Key facts

• Carlos Prates won at UFC Perth on May 3, 2026.
• Prates called for a welterweight title fight after his victory.
• Tai Tuivasa suffered his seventh loss in a row at the same event.
• Tuivasa apologized post-fight, saying 'You gotta put me out for me to give up.'
• UFC champion Tom Aspinall provided a positive update on his recovery from eye surgery on May 3, 2026.
• Yoel Romero won his Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA debut on May 3, 2026, breaking his opponent's jaw.
• David Benavidez reiterated his desire to fight Canelo Alvarez after defeating Zurdo Ramirez.

Prates Stakes His Claim

Carlos Prates, fresh off a victory at UFC Perth on May 3, 2026, has publicly called for a welterweight title fight. 'I make it look easy,' Prates declared, signaling his confidence after a performance that has thrust him into the title conversation. The Brazilian's win adds pressure on the division's hierarchy, with fans and analysts debating his readiness for a championship bout.

Tuivasa's Losing Streak Deepens

Tai Tuivasa's struggles continued as he suffered his seventh consecutive loss at UFC Perth. The Australian heavyweight issued an apology following the defeat, stating, 'You gotta put me out for me to give up.' The remark underscores his resilience but also highlights the mounting toll of his losing streak, which has raised questions about his future in the sport.

Aspinall's Recovery Progresses

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall shared a positive update on his recovery from eye surgery on May 3, 2026. 'Things are progressing f****** nicely,' Aspinall said, offering a hopeful outlook for his return to the octagon. The timeline for his comeback remains uncertain, but the update provides clarity on his health status.

Romero's Brutal Bareknuckle Debut

Yoel Romero made a violent entrance into Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA on May 3, 2026, defeating a replacement opponent by breaking his jaw. The victory, though impressive, came against a late substitute, leaving questions about Romero's level of competition. Nonetheless, the performance has generated buzz around his transition to bareknuckle fighting.

Benavidez Still Chasing Canelo

David Benavidez reiterated his desire to face Canelo Alvarez after his victory over Zurdo Ramirez. 'I just want to give the fans what they want to see,' Benavidez said, keeping the pressure on for a super middleweight showdown. The fight remains one of boxing's most anticipated matchups, though no deal has been reached.

Makhachev vs. Garry Debate Heats Up

Sean Brady has predicted that Islam Makhachev will 'run through' Ian Machado Garry, claiming the champion 'really threw a wrench into everything.' The comment adds fuel to speculation about Makhachev's next opponent, as the lightweight division awaits clarity on the champion's plans.

Perth Card Leaves Questions

UFC Perth delivered a mix of decisive victories and lingering uncertainties. While Prates and Romero made statements, Tuivasa's slide and the lack of a clear title challenger in the welterweight division leave the promotion with decisions to make. The event's outcomes will shape matchmaking in the coming months.

The bottom line

• Carlos Prates has positioned himself as a top welterweight contender after his UFC Perth win.
• Tai Tuivasa's seventh straight loss raises serious concerns about his career trajectory.
• Tom Aspinall's eye surgery recovery is progressing well, but a return date is not set.
• Yoel Romero's bareknuckle debut was emphatic but against a late replacement opponent.
• David Benavidez continues to push for a Canelo Alvarez fight after his win over Ramirez.
• Sean Brady's prediction adds intrigue to the lightweight title picture involving Islam Makhachev.