Tactical analysis previews Maddalena vs Prates as potential UFC classic

An in-depth breakdown examines the upcoming Maddalena versus Prates fight, focusing on whether both fighters will engage in a centerline brawl or if one will move backward. Prates has dropped opponents 11 times in the UFC moving forward and relies on his left straight, while Maddalena also builds his game on forward pressure. The analysis notes Maddalena absorbed over 50 clean straight punches against Belal Muhammad, making him vulnerable to Prates's power. However, Maddalena's short combination boxing and counterstriking could pose problems for Prates, who struggles at mid-to-close range. The piece references Ian Garry's success against Prates through excellent distance management and levyy straight recognition. The analyst predicts Maddalena will force Prates backward and win via decision or TKO in rounds 3-4, though acknowledges the fight could become a UFC classic regardless of outcome.