Analysis: Prates demolished Della Maddalena with kicks, poses threat to Makhachev

A detailed breakdown of Carlos Prates' victory over Jack Della Maddalena reveals the Brazilian's dominance through diverse striking. Prates destroyed the lead leg of the southpaw Della Maddalena with low kicks early, leaving his left side visibly red by the second round. Della Maddalena relied too heavily on a boxing guard which proved ineffective against Prates' tornado of kicks, elbows, knees and punches. The analysis notes Prates has already damaged the lead legs of southpaws Leon Edwards and Della Maddalena, finishing the latter with a low kick knockout. Against Islam Makhachev, Prates would target the champion's right leg similarly, and his knee strike presents danger when closing distance. However, the question remains whether Prates can maintain his striking threat after being pressured in half guard by Makhachev's wrestling. The piece suggests UFC may book Prates versus Michael Morales to determine a clear contender while Prates remains in peak form.