Analyst previews Maddalena vs. Prates as tactical puzzle over forward pressure

An in-depth analysis explores the key strategic question in the upcoming Maddalena versus Prates fight: whether there will be a head-to-head clash in the center, and if not, who will be forced to move backward. Both fighters are known for moving forward, with Prates having dropped opponents 11 times in the UFC while advancing and Maddalena's entire game built on forward movement. The analyst notes that Maddalena absorbed over 50 clean straight punches against Belal Muhammad, while Prates needs only one clean shot. Maddalena's advantages lie in his short-range combination boxing and counterstriking ability, as Prates struggles in close-range boxing exchanges. The analysis references Ian Garry's success against Prates, noting Garry's ability to read and evade the left straight on millimeters. Despite the tactical challenges, the analyst favors Maddalena to force Prates backward and potentially secure a decision or TKO in rounds 3-4.