Multiple UFC fighters broke down Carlos Prates' exceptional knee strike performance against Dricus du Plessis. Cory Sandhagen highlighted Prates' unique spring-loaded knee technique that generates extreme power without a typical step-in, noting how he transitions the same motion into head kicks by wrapping around the opponent's head. Jorge Masvidal praised Prates' distance coverage with the knees and how the threat alone shut down du Plessis' close-range boxing and clinch work. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates showed no fear of takedowns when throwing the knees, allowing him to attack more aggressively. Dean Thomas observed how seamlessly Prates mixed the knees with his hand strikes, making them difficult to see coming.
