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

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed technical analysis of Carlos Prates' dominant striking performance, particularly his knee attacks against Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates generated exceptional power by loading spring-like mechanics into his knees rather than simply stepping, and how he mixed knees with high kicks that wrapped around the head. Jorge Masvidal noted Prates' ability to cover distance and use knee threats to shut down Della Maddalena's close-range boxing, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat. Dustin Poirier emphasized that Prates' lack of takedown fear allowed him to throw knees more boldly. Dean Thomas praised how seamlessly Prates integrated knees with his hand striking. All analysts agreed the knee work represented some of the highest-level striking seen in recent UFC competition, though Masvidal warned Prates could face challenges if Islam Makhachev secures early takedowns.