An in-depth analysis of Carlos Prates's victory over Jack Della Maddalena highlights several key tactical factors. Approximately 90% of Maddalena's defensive actions relied on a boxing block, which proved ineffective against Prates's varied arsenal of kicks, elbows, knees, and punches. Maddalena fought predominantly in southpaw stance despite having his left leg damaged by Islam Makhachev previously, and when switching to orthodox, Prates targeted his left side with middle kicks. Maddalena's chance lay in aggressive pressure and keeping Prates against the cage, but he lacked the speed and was cautious after eating a knee. The analysis suggests Prates would have won regardless of Maddalena's approach due to his versatility, confidence, and power from all angles. Looking ahead to a potential Islam Makhachev matchup, the breakdown notes that Prates has damaged the lead legs of both southpaw opponents Edwards and Maddalena with devastating low kicks. However, Makhachev's high-level striking, ability to disguise takedowns, and grinding top pressure could present different challenges.
