Analyst breaks down Prates vs Makhachev potential after Maddalena knockout

A detailed analysis of Carlos Prates's victory over Jack Della Maddalena examines both the fight itself and potential implications for an Islam Makhachev matchup. The breakdown notes that Maddalena relied heavily on a boxing block defense that proved inadequate against Prates's diverse striking arsenal of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Maddalena surprisingly fought primarily in southpaw stance despite previous leg damage from Makhachev, allowing Prates to damage his left side extensively with middle kicks. Regarding a potential Prates-Makhachev bout, the analysis highlights that Prates has destroyed the lead legs of southpaws Leon Edwards and Maddalena, capable of disrupting movement with 4-5 low kicks and potentially finishing with 10-15. However, the piece questions whether Prates would maintain his effectiveness after being controlled on the ground, suggesting the UFC must decide whether to save this matchup or arrange Prates versus Michael Morales first.