UFC fighters analyze Carlos Prates' devastating knee strikes against Della Maddalena

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strikes in his victory over Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted Prates' unique springing motion that generates massive power without a traditional step, noting how he mixed knees with high kicks by wrapping around the head. Sandhagen also praised Prates' elbow work breaking through Della Maddalena's guard. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in years, noting how the threat alone shut down Della Maddalena's clinch boxing and body work. Both fighters discussed implications for a potential matchup with Islam Makhachev, with Masvidal suggesting Prates' length and knees could trouble takedown attempts but Makhachev's grappling represents a different stratosphere. Dustin Poirier and Dean Thomas added observations about Prates mixing knees seamlessly with punches and showing no fear of takedowns.