Analysis: Prates favored over Maddalena in striking-heavy UFC Perth main event

An in-depth breakdown of the UFC Perth main event between Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates suggests Prates holds the advantage despite competitive odds of 1.9 to 1.8. The analysis notes that Maddalena's pressure-based style works best when he's the aggressor, but unlike Ian Garry, Maddalena lacks the kicking game and footwork to safely control distance against Prates. Maddalena's primary tool for controlling range will be boxing, which creates risk of getting countered by Prates' powerful strikes. The piece highlights that even if Maddalena wins early rounds, Prates remains dangerous until the final bell, as evidenced by his near-knockout of Garry in round five. The author questions whether Maddalena can maintain perfect defensive discipline for 25 minutes, noting even Belal Muhammad landed cleanly on him. The conclusion favors Prates to land a decisive strike.