Multiple UFC fighters and analysts have broken down Carlos Prates' exceptional knee strike technique following his victory, with Cory Sandhagen providing the most detailed analysis. Sandhagen explained that Prates' left knee was the game-changing attack, noting it's not a simple step-in knee but involves a powerful spring-loaded motion that generated devastating impact. Prates also cleverly transitioned the knee setup into high kicks, using the same chambering motion to confuse opponents. Sandhagen highlighted Prates' unique cutting elbows that broke through his opponent's guard, noting the technique differs from standard tomahawks and requires exceptional shoulder flexibility. Jorge Masvidal praised how Prates covered distance with his knees and used the threat alone to shut down his opponent's offense, preventing close-range boxing and body work. Masvidal compared the performance to "Mortal Kombat" level striking but expressed concern about how Prates would handle Islam Makhachev's elite wrestling. Dean Thomas noted the knees were well-hidden and mixed seamlessly with Prates' hand strikes, while Dustin Poirier emphasized that Prates' fearlessness of takedowns enabled him to throw knees more aggressively.
