Vicente Prates is entering the UFC Perth main event as the slight favorite against Sean Della Maddalena. Analysts highlight his athleticism, knockout power, and recent form as key advantages in the matchup.

UFC Returns to Australia

The fight marks the UFC’s return to Australia after nearly three months. Prates aims to extend his winning streak, while Della Maddalena looks to rebound from his first loss in nearly a decade. The event will be held at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, this Saturday.

Prates' Key Advantages

Athleticism: Prates possesses a significant fast-twitch athleticism advantage over many welterweights, especially those who favor standup exchanges like Della Maddalena. This allows him to dictate the pace and catch opponents off guard.

Knockout Power: At 32 years old, Prates has 23 professional wins, with 21 coming by way of finish – 18 by knockout or technical knockout. He has a history of first-round finishes, with 10 victories occurring within the first round. His recent knockout of Leon Edwards at UFC 322 demonstrates this power.

Physical Advantages: Prates enjoys a two-inch height and five-inch reach advantage over Della Maddalena, further enhancing his striking capabilities.

Recent Form and Momentum

Prates has secured 13 wins in his last 14 fights, beginning in 2019. He quickly climbed the ranks after joining the UFC three years ago and enters this bout with two consecutive victories.

Della Maddalena is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Belal Muhammad in November, ending his reign as the undisputed UFC welterweight champion after 189 days. This was his first loss in nearly a decade.

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