Detailed analysis of Prates vs Maddalen fight and Makhachev matchup prospects

A detailed breakdown reveals that Jack Della Maddalena relied heavily on boxing blocks for defense against Carlos Prates, which proved ineffective against Prates' tornado of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Maddalena spent much of the fight in a southpaw stance despite his left leg being damaged by Makhachev previously, and Prates damaged his left side with mid-kicks. The analyst believes Prates would have demolished Maddalena regardless of preparation due to his confidence, versatility, and striking power from all angles. Looking ahead to a potential Islam Makhachev fight, the analysis notes that Prates destroyed the right legs of southpaws Leon Edwards and Maddalena with low kicks, with Maddalena being knocked out by a leg kick. Prates can compromise an opponent's movement with 4-5 low kicks and potentially knockout with 10-15. However, Makhachev is himself a high-level striker who disguises takedowns well, and many strikers become softer after being held down for a round. The post questions whether the UFC will hold Prates for Makhachev or match him with Joaquin Buckley first.