Multiple UFC fighters provided technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strike performance. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' left knee changed the fight, noting the unique spring-loaded power generation and the clever mixing of knees with high kicks that wrapped around the opponent's head. He also praised Prates' use of chopping elbows to break through DDM's guard. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how the knee threat shut down DDM's inside boxing and clinch work, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat and suggesting that while Prates' length and knees could trouble Makhachev's takedowns, Makhachev's wrestling would be a nightmare if he secured early control. Dustin Poirier and Dean Thomas both noted how effectively Prates mixed his knees with his hands and his apparent confidence against takedown attempts.
