Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' knee strikes and elbow techniques in his recent performance. Cory Sandhagen praised Prates' powerful left knee with full spring-loaded motion that repeatedly rocked his opponent, noting how he seamlessly mixed it with high kicks by wrapping around the head. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' unique slashing elbows that broke through defensive guards, different from standard tomahawk elbows. Jorge Masvidal called it some of the best knee work he's seen in a long time, comparing it to Mortal Kombat level striking, noting how the knees completely shut down the opponent's boxing and clinch work. Dean Thomas and Dustin Poirier both noted how Prates mixed his knees effectively with hand strikes and showed no fear of takedowns, which allowed him to throw them more confidently. The analysts suggested these techniques could be effective against high-level opponents but noted concerns about facing elite wrestling.
