Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' knee strikes following his performance. Cory Sandhagen highlighted how Prates' left knee changed the fight, noting the unique technique of generating power through a spring-loaded motion rather than stepping forward. Sandhagen also praised Prates' ability to mix knees with high kicks and his use of elbows to break through opponents' guards. Jorge Masvidal emphasized how Prates' knee threat shut down his opponent's close-range boxing and clinch work, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' fearlessness of takedowns allowed him to throw knees more confidently. Dean Thomas observed how effectively Prates disguised his knees within his striking combinations.
Carlos Prates' devastating knee strikes have drawn widespread attention from across the UFC roster, with several notable fighters breaking down his technique in detail following his latest performance.
Cory Sandhagen was among the most analytical voices, zeroing in on Prates' left knee as a fight-changing weapon. Sandhagen noted that what makes the strike so dangerous is the way Prates generates power through a spring-loaded motion rather than stepping into the blow, a subtle mechanical difference that makes it far harder to read and defend. Sandhagen also highlighted how Prates layers the knee alongside high kicks and uses elbows to crack open opponents' guards before attacking.
Jorge Masvidal, the 41-year-old American Top Team veteran with a 35-17-0 record and one of combat sports' keener tactical minds, compared the performance to Mortal Kombat. The Miami-born striker pointed out how the constant knee threat effectively neutralized his opponent's close-range boxing and clinch work, forcing a complete rethink of inside-fighting strategy.
Dustin Poirier, the 37-year-old American Top Team standout who lands 5.24 significant strikes per minute and holds a 30-10-0 record, offered a tactical observation about mindset. Poirier noted that Prates' willingness to absorb or ignore the threat of takedowns gives him the freedom to throw knees with conviction — a confidence that amplifies the weapon significantly.
Coach and analyst Dean Thomas rounded out the breakdown by focusing on disguise, explaining how smoothly Prates embeds his knees within broader striking combinations, making the strike nearly impossible to anticipate in isolation.
Why it matters
- Prates is establishing himself as one of the more unique offensive threats in his division, drawing peer recognition for technical innovation
- The cross-section of voices — a ranked contender, a veteran brawler, a high-volume striker, and a coach — suggests his style is genuinely challenging conventional defensive frameworks
- His apparent comfort against takedown attempts adds a grappling dimension that makes neutralizing the knee even more difficult for future opponents
