UFC fighters analyze Prates' devastating knee strikes against Della Maddalena

Multiple UFC fighters broke down Carlos Prates' exceptional knee technique following his victory over Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen emphasized how Prates generates power by springing his entire body rather than just stepping, and noted his unique ability to transition the knee setup into high kicks that wrap around the head. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in years, highlighting how the threat of knees completely shut down Della Maddalena's close-range boxing and body work. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates showed no fear of takedowns, allowing him to throw knees more aggressively. Dean Thomas credited Prates for making his knees invisible by mixing them seamlessly with his hand strikes. All analysts agreed the knees, combined with elbows, were instrumental in breaking through Della Maddalena's typically solid defense.