Detailed breakdown reveals Della Maddalena's tactical errors against Prates

A comprehensive re-watch analysis of Jack Della Maddalena versus Carlos Prates has identified several critical tactical mistakes that led to Della Maddalena's first knockout loss. The breakdown notes that approximately 90% of Della Maddalena's defense relied on a boxing-style block, which proved ineffective against Prates's tornado of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Della Maddalena fought extensively in southpaw stance despite his left leg being compromised in the Makhachev fight, and when he switched to orthodox, Prates punished his left side with middle kicks until it turned red. The analysis suggests Della Maddalena's best chance would have been aggressive first-number work, keeping Prates against the cage, but he lacked the speed and was too cautious after eating a knee. Regarding a potential Makhachev-Prates matchup, the breakdown notes that Prates has destroyed the lead legs of southpaws Edwards and Della Maddalena, sometimes with just 4-5 low kicks affecting movement and 10-15 potentially causing a knockout. However, Makhachev's high-level striking, ability to disguise takedowns, and ground pressure could pose problems for even an on-fire Prates. The post questions whether the UFC should have Prates fight Morales first to determine a clear contender.