Islam Makhachev was all eyes on Perth this weekend as Carlos Prates delivered a masterclass performance against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC's return to Australia.

The Brazilian sensation didn't just win—he dominated. Prates controlled every round before finishing the former champion in the third, sending a clear message to the entire welterweight division.

For Della Maddalena, it was a tough night in front of his home crowd. The Australian was looking to bounce back from his title loss to Makhachev, but Prates had other plans, riding into the octagon on the momentum of two crushing knockout victories.

Now, the welterweight title picture is heating up fast. Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, has been linked to a move up to welterweight, and speculation has been swirling about his first opponent at 170 pounds.

Michael Morales was initially the frontrunner, but recent reports suggest Makhachev is now in talks to face Ian Machado Garry. With Prates vaulting into the top contender spot after his Perth victory, the 34-year-old champion made sure to take notes.

Makhachev even took to social media to acknowledge Prates' win, adding a playful jab about their past encounter. Remember when Prates was spotted eating Nutella cake during his weight cut for UFC 322? The disciplined Russian certainly hasn't forgotten, and his comment showed he's keeping a close eye on the Brazilian's rise.

The buzz is building for a potential Makhachev vs. Machado Garry showdown at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. And if that fight happens, Prates has already thrown his hat in the ring to face the winner—setting up a possible future clash with Garry, with whom he's shared some lighthearted banter about unfinished business.

But there's another name in the mix: Ilia Topuria. The rising star remains linked to a potential bout with Makhachev, a matchup that nearly came together at UFC White House. If Topuria wins on June 14th, he could jump the line and throw a wrench into Prates' title plans.

In that scenario, fans are already suggesting Michael Morales as a logical next opponent for Prates while he waits for his shot at gold. Either way, the welterweight division is shaping up for an exciting year ahead.