A tactical breakdown examines the main strategic question for the upcoming Madalena vs Prates welterweight bout: who will be forced to fight moving backwards? Both fighters are accustomed to moving forward, with Prates having dropped opponents 11 times in the UFC while pressing forward, and Madalena similarly building his game on forward pressure. The analysis notes Prates' power in his left straight requires him to advance to create space, while Madalena has rarely been seen moving backwards. If both refuse to retreat and clash in the center, the analyst suggests Madalena faces significant danger, citing his vulnerability to absorbing clean punches as seen in the Muhammad fight. However, Madalena holds advantages in combination boxing and counter-striking at close range, where Prates has shown vulnerability. The prediction favors Madalena to force Prates backwards and win by decision or TKO in rounds 3-4.
