UFC fighters analyze Carlos Prates' devastating knee and elbow striking techniques

Multiple UFC fighters and analysts have provided detailed breakdowns of Carlos Prates' striking performance, particularly focusing on his exceptional use of knees and elbows. Cory Sandhagen emphasized the power and technical sophistication of Prates' left knee strikes, noting how he generates explosive force by springing upward rather than simply stepping. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' ability to transition from knee threats to high kicks that wrap around opponents' heads, and praised his elbow work for breaking through defensive guards. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in years, comparing the performance to "Mortal Kombat" and noting how the knee threats neutralized his opponent's clinch game and body work. Both Masvidal and Dustin Poirier observed that Prates' confidence in his takedown defense allows him to throw knees more aggressively. Dean Thomas noted the knees blend seamlessly with Prates' hand striking, making them difficult to see coming.