UFC fighters analyze Prates' devastating knee and elbow techniques

Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' striking techniques, particularly his knees and elbows, following his performance against Du Plessis. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' left knee changed the fight, noting it wasn't a typical step-in knee but rather generated power through a springing motion that made opponents' heads snap back. He praised Prates' ability to transition the knee threat into high kicks and his unique use of ripping elbows to break through defensive blocks. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how Prates' knee threats covered significant distance and completely shut down his opponent's ability to work in the clinch or box at close range, calling it "Mortal Kombat level" work. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' fearlessness of takedowns allowed him to throw knees more confidently. Dean Thomas commented on how well Prates mixed his knees with his hand strikes, making them difficult to see coming.