A detailed breakdown of the Prates versus Della Maddalena fight reveals several key tactical points. Della Maddalena relied heavily on a boxing guard for defense, which proved ineffective against Prates's tornado of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Della Maddalena fought primarily in southpaw stance despite having his left leg damaged in a previous fight with Makhachev, and Prates punished his left side with body kicks. The analyst admits to underestimating Prates's all-around striking and ability to enter a flow state. Regarding a potential Makhachev versus Prates matchup, the analysis notes that Prates destroyed the lead legs of southpaws Leon Edwards and Della Maddalena, sometimes finishing them with low kicks alone. However, Makhachev's high-level striking, ability to disguise takedowns, and ground pressure could soften Prates over the course of a fight. The post questions whether Prates would maintain his effectiveness after being controlled on the ground.
