UFC fighters analyze Carlos Prates' devastating knee strikes against DDP

Multiple UFC fighters and analysts have dissected Carlos Prates' striking performance, particularly his knee technique. Cory Sandhagen noted that Prates' left knee changed the fight, emphasizing the unique springing motion that generated exceptional power rather than a simple step-in. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' ability to transition the knee setup into left high kicks that wrapped around the opponent's head, calling it uniquely high-level technique. Jorge Masvidal praised how the knee threat alone shut down his opponent's ability to work in close range, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat and noting Prates' length advantage could trouble wrestlers like Islam Makhachev. Dustin Poirier observed that Prates showed no fear of takedowns, allowing him to throw knees more confidently. Dean Thomas credited Prates with effectively mixing knees into his hand combinations, making them difficult to see and preventing his opponent from closing distance.