Multiple UFC fighters and analysts provided detailed breakdowns of Caio Prates' exceptional knee strike performance. Cory Sandhagen praised the unique mechanics of Prates' knees, noting how he generates power by springing upward rather than stepping, and how he cleverly transitions the knee setup into high kicks that wrap around the head. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' ability to break through Dricus du Plessis' defensive block using elbows. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in years, comparing it to Mortal Kombat and noting how the knee threat completely shut down DDP's close-range boxing and clinch work. Dean Thomas emphasized how well Prates disguises his knees within his hand combinations, making them difficult to see coming. Dustin Poirier noted that Prates' confidence in throwing knees comes from not fearing takedowns, allowing him to attack more aggressively.
