Multiple UFC fighters provided technical breakdowns of Carlos Prates' knee strike performance in his recent victory. Cory Sandhagen highlighted that Prates' left knee was the game-changing weapon, noting the unique spring-loaded technique that generates exceptional power without a step, and how Prates transitions seamlessly from knee threats to high kicks by wrapping over the head when facing southpaws. Jorge Masvidal praised Prates' ability to cover distance with the knees and how the threat alone shut down his opponent's clinch work, comparing the performance to Mortal Kombat and noting Prates' length advantage could trouble wrestlers like Islam Makhachev, though he believes Makhachev's grappling would be a nightmare if he secures early takedowns. Dean Thomas emphasized how well Prates conceals his knees within his hand combinations. Dustin Poirier observed that Prates used knees and elbows to break through defensive guards, and that his lack of takedown fear allowed him to throw knees with confidence.
