Tactical breakdown: Who moves backward in Della Maddalena vs Prates?

A detailed tactical analysis of the Della Maddalena versus Prates bout focuses on the central question of whether there will be a head-on collision in the center of the cage, and if not, who will move backward. The piece notes that Prates has dropped opponents 11 times in the UFC while moving forward and except for brief moments with Neil Magny has never retreated, needing to advance to create space for his left straight. Della Maddalena's entire style is also built on forward movement. The analysis highlights that against Belal Muhammad, Della Maddalena absorbed over 50 clean straight punches to the head, while Prates only needs one. The author suggests Della Maddalena's advantage lies in short combination boxing and counter-striking on the inside, where Prates is weaker. Ian Garry succeeded by being exceptionally fast and versatile with strong distance control through volume kicking, attributes Della Maddalena lacks. The prediction leans toward Della Maddalena forcing Prates backward and winning by decision or TKO in rounds 3-4, though the author admits this is based more on preference than strict calculation.