UFC fighters analyze Carlos Prates' devastating knee strikes against JDM

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strikes in his victory over Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted Prates' unique spring-loaded knee technique that generates exceptional power without a traditional step, and his ability to transition the same motion into high kicks. Jorge Masvidal praised how Prates used the threat of knees to shut down JDM's close-range boxing and body work, calling it some of the best knee work he's seen in years. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' confidence in his takedown defense allows him to throw knees more aggressively. Dean Thomas emphasized how seamlessly Prates mixes knees with his hand strikes, making them difficult to see coming. All analysts expressed concern for Islam Makhachev facing these weapons, though Masvidal suggested Makhachev's elite wrestling could prove decisive if he secures early takedowns.