Analysis: Prates dominated Maddalena with diverse striking before potential Makhachev bout

A detailed fight analysis reveals Carlos Prates defeated Jack Della Maddalena through superior striking diversity and aggression. Maddalena relied heavily on a boxing guard defense which proved ineffective against Prates's array of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Maddalena fought mostly in southpaw stance despite his left leg being compromised after the Makhachev fight, and Prates damaged his left side with mid-kicks. The analyst believes Prates would have won regardless of Maddalena's preparation due to his belief, versatility, and current momentum. Looking ahead to a potential Islam Makhachev matchup, the analysis notes Prates has consistently damaged southpaws' right legs with low kicks and can finish with them, creating intrigue. However, Makhachev is himself a high-level striker who disguises takedowns well, and ground pressure could diminish Prates's effectiveness. The UFC must decide whether to match Prates with Santiago Moraes first or save him for Makhachev.