UFC fighters analyze Prates' devastating knee strikes against Della Maddalena

Multiple UFC fighters provided technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strike performance against Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' left knee changed the fight, noting the unique spring-loaded power generation rather than stepping motion, and praised the transition to high kicks. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how the knee threat neutralized Della Maddalena's close-range boxing and body work, comparing the performance to "Mortal Kombat" level striking. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' willingness to throw knees without fearing takedowns demonstrated high-level confidence. Dean Thomas observed how effectively Prates mixed his knees with hand strikes, making them difficult to see coming. All fighters recognized the knees and elbows as key weapons that broke through Della Maddalena's defensive shell.