Multiple UFC fighters provided detailed analysis of Carlos Prates' striking performance, particularly his knee attacks. Cory Sandhagen noted that Prates' left knee changed the fight against DdM, emphasizing the unique spring-loaded power rather than standard step-in technique, and how Prates converted the knee threat into high kicks by wrapping over the head. Sandhagen also highlighted Prates' use of chopping elbows to break through DdM's guard, something Sandhagen couldn't achieve against Petr Yan. Jorge Masvidal praised the knees as "Mortal Kombat level" work, noting how the threat alone disabled DdM's body work and close-range boxing, calling it some of the best knee work he'd seen in a long time. Dustin Poirier observed that Prates opened up DdM's guard with knees and elbows while showing no fear of takedowns. Dean Thomas added that Prates mixed his knees seamlessly with his hand work, making them hard to see. All analysts agreed the performance demonstrated elite-level striking.
