UFC fighters analyze Prates' devastating knee strikes against Della Maddalena

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' knee strike performance against Jack Della Maddalena. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' left knee changed the fight, noting the unique spring-loaded technique that generates exceptional power without stepping, and how Prates cleverly transitioned between knee threats and high kicks. Sandhagen also praised Prates' elbow work that broke through Della Maddalena's defensive block. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how Prates covered distance with the knees and used the knee threat to shut down Della Maddalena's close-range boxing and clinch work, calling it "Mortal Kombat level" striking. However, Masvidal warned that Islam Makhachev's wrestling represents a different stratosphere, suggesting one takedown could create a nightmare for Prates. Dean Thomas noted how well Prates mixed knees with hand strikes, making them difficult to see. Dustin Poirier observed that Prates showed no fear of takedowns, which allowed him to throw knees more confidently and helped him break Della Maddalena's guard with knees and elbows.