Breakdown: Maddalena vs. Prates hinges on who moves forward

An in-depth analysis of the upcoming Jack Della Maddalena vs. Carlos Prates fight suggests the central question is whether there will be a head-to-head clash in the center of the octagon, and if not, who will move backward. Prates has dropped 11 opponents in the UFC while moving forward, and his power relies on creating space with his left straight. Maddalena is also built on forward pressure. The piece notes that standing in the pocket with Prates is dangerous due to his knockout power, as demonstrated against Trevor Giles. Maddalena's best chance may be to force Prates backward and pressure him with short combinations, where Prates has shown vulnerability. The analysis references Ian Garry's success using footwork and kicks to control distance, something Maddalena lacks. The author leans toward Maddalena by decision or TKO in rounds three or four, provided he can maintain discipline and avoid Prates' counters.