Detailed breakdown reveals Jack Della Maddalena's defensive flaws against Prates

A comprehensive post-fight analysis identified multiple tactical errors in Jack Della Maddalena's loss to Carlos Prates. Approximately 90% of Della Maddalena's defensive actions relied on a boxing guard, which proved inadequate against Prates' diverse arsenal of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Della Maddalena fought primarily in a southpaw stance despite his left leg being compromised in his previous fight with Makhachev, and when he switched to orthodox, Prates punished his left side with middle kicks. The analysis notes that Della Maddalena lacked the speed and aggression needed to pressure Prates effectively, while Prates' confidence, power, and versatility from multiple angles overwhelmed his opponent. Regarding a potential matchup between Islam Makhachev and Prates, the analysis highlights that Prates has successfully damaged the lead legs of southpaw opponents Edwards and Della Maddalena with devastating leg kicks. However, questions remain about whether Prates could maintain his striking effectiveness after being controlled on the ground by Makhachev's elite grappling.