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

A detailed tactical analysis explores the central question of the Maddalena vs. Prates fight: who will be forced to move backward. Both fighters typically pressure forward, with Prates dropping opponents 11 times in the UFC while advancing. The piece notes Maddalena's vulnerabilities to straight punches, having absorbed over 50 clean shots against Belal Muhammad. Ian Garry's success against Prates came from distance management with kicks and footwork, tools Maddalena lacks. The analysis suggests Maddalena's best chance is short-range combination boxing and forcing Prates to the cage, though this carries significant risk. The prediction slightly favors Maddalena to force Prates backward and secure a decision or TKO in rounds 3-4, though acknowledges the fight is a puzzle.