UFC fighters analyze Carlos Prates' devastating knee strikes against JDM

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strike performance against Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' powerful spring-loaded knee technique changed the fight, noting the unique way he converted knee threats into high kicks by wrapping over JDM's head. He also praised Prates' use of elbows to break through JDM's defensive block, comparing it favorably to his own experience against Petr Yan. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how the knee threat alone shut down JDM's close-range boxing and body work, calling it some of the best knee work he has seen in years. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' willingness to throw knees without fearing takedowns demonstrated his confidence. Both Masvidal and analysts suggested that while Prates' knees could pose problems for Islam Makhachev, the champion's wrestling remains a significant threat.