Analysis: Forward pressure will determine Maddalena vs Prates outcome at UFC Perth

A tactical breakdown examines the key question in the Maddalena versus Prates fight: will there be a head-on collision in the center of the cage, and if not, who will move backwards? The analysis notes that Prates has dropped opponents 11 times in the UFC while moving forward and rarely retreats except briefly against Neil Magny, needing forward movement to set up his left straight. Maddalena similarly has built his entire style on moving forward. The piece suggests Maddalena's chances are poor if they stand and trade in the center, as he absorbed over 50 clean head strikes from Belal Muhammad while Prates only needs one clean shot. Maddalena's advantage lies in short-range combination boxing and counter-striking, areas where Prates struggles. The analyst compares this to how Ian Garry succeeded by using his size, speed, front hand, leg kicks, and distance control, though Maddalena will likely rely more heavily on boxing alone. The prediction favors Maddalena by decision or TKO in rounds 3-4, believing he can force Prates backwards and overwhelm him with volume.