Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' knee strikes in his recent victory, praising the technique as exceptional and fight-changing. Cory Sandhagen highlighted that Prates' left knee was the game-changing weapon, noting the unique spring-loaded power generation rather than traditional stepping technique, and praised how Prates cleverly mixed the knee threat with high kicks that wrapped around the opponent's head. Jorge Masvidal compared the performance to Mortal Kombat, stating it was one of the best knee strike displays he'd seen in a long time, explaining how the knee threat completely shut down the opponent's ability to box in the clinch or work the body. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates used knees and elbows to break through his opponent's defensive block, and that his lack of fear of takedowns allowed him to throw the knees more confidently. Dean Thomas praised how Prates mixed the knees seamlessly with his hand work, making them difficult to see coming. The consensus among elite fighters was that Prates demonstrated uniquely high-level striking technique that could pose problems for top contenders.
