Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed technical analysis of Carlos Prates' knee strikes in his victory over Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted the unique mechanics of Prates' left knee, noting how he generates power through full-body spring motion rather than just stepping. Sandhagen also praised Prates' transition from knee to high kick and his elbow work that broke through JDM's guard. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in a long time, comparing Prates' performance to Mortal Kombat. Masvidal noted that Prates' knees completely shut down JDM's close-range boxing and body work, though he warned that Islam Makhachev's wrestling could pose problems. Dustin Poirier observed that Prates showed no fear of takedowns, which allowed him to throw knees more confidently. Dean Thomas noted how well Prates mixed his knees with hand strikes, making them difficult to see coming.
Several UFC fighters took to social media and commentary platforms to break down Carlos Prates' technical striking performance in his victory over Jack Della Maddalena, offering detailed praise for the Brazilian's devastating knee strike arsenal.
Cory Sandhagen led the analysis, zeroing in on the unique mechanics behind Prates' left knee. Rather than simply stepping into the strike, Sandhagen noted that Prates generates power through a full-body spring motion, making the technique both explosive and difficult to time. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' seamless transition from knee to high kick and his elbow work, which repeatedly broke through Della Maddalena's guard.
Jorge Masvidal, the 41-year-old American Top Team veteran carrying a 35-17 record, called it some of the best knee work he has seen in a long time, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat. The former BMF champion observed that Prates' knees effectively neutralized Della Maddalena's close-range boxing and body attack entirely. Masvidal did add a note of caution, warning that the wrestling of welterweight champion Islam Makhachev could present serious problems for Prates down the road.
Makhachev, currently ranked number one in the pound-for-pound standings and holding a 28-1 record, averages 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes — a grappling threat that would represent a very different challenge from Della Maddalena's boxing-heavy approach.
Dustin Poirier, the 37-year-old American Top Team standout with a 30-10 record, contributed a tactical observation: Prates showed no fear of being taken down, and that confidence allowed him to throw knees more freely without hesitation. Dean Thomas rounded out the analysis by pointing to how effectively Prates blended his knees with hand strikes, making the attacks far harder to anticipate and defend.
Why it matters
- Prates' performance has drawn widespread attention from established names, raising his profile significantly in the welterweight division
- Masvidal's Makhachev warning signals a clear next narrative thread, given the champion's elite 3.2 takedowns-per-15-minute average
- The multi-fighter consensus on Prates' knee mechanics suggests a technically refined tool rather than a one-night showcase
