A detailed breakdown of Carlos Prates' victory over Jack Della Maddalena reveals several key factors. Maddalena relied heavily on a boxing guard for defense (approximately 90%), which proved ineffective against Prates' tornado of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Maddalena fought primarily in southpaw stance despite previous leg damage from Islam Makhachev, and when he switched to orthodox, Prates damaged his left side with middle kicks. Maddalena's chance was to pressure aggressively as the first attacker, but he lacked the speed and aggression, appearing cautious especially after taking a knee. The analysis suggests Prates would have won regardless of Maddalena's preparation due to his belief, versatility, and ability to enter a destructive flow state. Regarding a potential Makhachev fight, the post notes Prates has destroyed the lead legs of southpaws Edwards and Maddalena in first rounds with low kicks, posing questions about how Makhachev would close distance and whether Prates would remain effective after being controlled on the ground.
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