Analysis: Maddalena vs Prates hinges on who will move backward in octagon

An in-depth breakdown examines the central tactical question for the upcoming Carlos Prates versus Jack Maddalena fight: whether either fighter will be willing to move backward, given both built their UFC success on relentless forward pressure. Prates has dropped 11 opponents in the UFC while moving forward, with his left straight being his primary weapon that requires him to create space by advancing. Maddalena similarly has built his entire game on moving forward, rarely retreating except in brief moments against Belal Muhammad. The analysis suggests if they meet in the center, Maddalena could be in danger, as he absorbed over 50 clean straight punches against Muhammad, and Prates only needs one clean shot. However, Maddalena's advantages include short-range combination boxing and counterstriking ability that could force Prates backward. The breakdown references Ian Garry's success against Prates, noting Garry's exceptional ability to read and evade the left straight, possibly due to extensive sparring with southpaws. The author leans toward Maddalena by decision or TKO in rounds 3-4, believing he can force Prates backward and damage him with volume striking.