Multiple UFC fighters and analysts have broken down Carlos Prates' exceptional knee strike technique following his recent victory. Cory Sandhagen provided the most detailed analysis, describing Prates' left knee as a game-changing weapon that generates power not from stepping but from explosive spring-loaded motion that made his opponent's head snap back. Sandhagen noted how Prates cleverly mixed the knee threat with high kicks, using the same setup to deliver either strike depending on opponent positioning. He also praised Prates' use of slicing elbows to break through defensive blocks. Jorge Masvidal highlighted how Prates' knee attacks covered exceptional distance and neutralized his opponent's close-range boxing and clinch work, comparing the performance to 'Mortal Kombat' level striking. Masvidal suggested these knees could stop takedown attempts against wrestlers like Islam Makhachev, though he believes Makhachev's elite grappling would still pose problems if he secures early takedowns. Dean Thomas and Dustin Poirier also praised how Prates' fearless knee attacks, combined with his lack of takedown concern, allowed him to strike with unusual confidence and break through his opponent's defense.
