Analysis: Prates would present dangerous challenge for Makhachev

A detailed breakdown suggests Carlos Prates destroyed the lead legs of southpaws Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena within the first round, with Della Maddalena being knocked out by a leg kick after 10-15 strikes. The analysis notes that Makhachev, also a southpaw, would face similar leg kick threats and dangerous counter strikes if he makes any distance management errors. However, the analyst acknowledges Makhachev is a high-level striker himself who skillfully hides takedowns, and many strikers deteriorate after being controlled in half guard for a round. The piece questions whether Prates would maintain his effectiveness after being pressured on the ground. The analysis suggests UFC must decide whether to have Prates wait for a Makhachev fight or face Shavkat Rakhmonov first to determine a clear contender, noting that Prates vs Rakhmonov would be an extremely dangerous matchup while Prates is riding high confidence.