Analysis: Della Maddalena's defensive flaws led to Prates knockout loss

Jack Della Maddalena relied heavily on a boxing block defense against Carlos Prates, which proved ineffective against Prates' diverse arsenal of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Approximately 90% of Della Maddalena's defensive actions utilized this porous blocking technique, allowing numerous straight punches through. Della Maddalena fought primarily in southpaw stance despite having his left leg damaged by Makhachev in a previous bout, and when switching to orthodox, Prates punished his left side with middle kicks. The Australian lacked the speed and aggression needed to pressure Prates effectively and keep him against the cage. Prates' versatility, power from all angles, and confidence overwhelmed Della Maddalena's game plan. The analysis suggests that regardless of preparation, Prates would have defeated Della Maddalena due to his superior striking diversity and momentum.