Dricus Du Plessis surprised by UFC 328 typing Khamzat has no chance in fight on Strickland’s terms

Dricus du Plessis is once again in the spotlight ahead of one of the biggest fights of the year. The former UFC middleweight champion spoke on Khamzat Khimaev’s clash with Sean Strickland, and his analysis sparked a lot of discussion among fans.

“Stillknocks” knows both fighters very well. Last year he lost the belt to Chimaev at UFC 319, and now he is keeping a close eye on his preparations for another title defense. At UFC 328, the undefeated “Borz” will face former champion Strickland in a bout that has been electrifying the community for months.

Although many experts are betting on Khimaev, there is no shortage of opinions that Strickland has real arguments to spring a surprise. The juxtaposition of the Chechen’s wrestling with the American’s very solid takedown defense may prove crucial.

Du Plessis points out Strickland’s advantage. “He can surprise a lot of viewers.”

In an interview with Fight Forecast , Du Plessis dissected the UFC 328 evening fight in detail. In his opinion, the first round can set up the entire fight.

“The first round is going to tell us so much about this fight. Khamzat is going to get Sean down. I’ve taken Sean down so many times. But to keep him there? That’s going to be the big question,” Du Plessis said of Chimaev vs. Strickland clash.

“Because Strickland’s ability to get up, the technique he uses, the strength he has, is a lot stronger than Khamzat on a physical level. I think he’s going to surprise some people.

“If Strickland gets up 2, 3 times in the first round, it’s not going to get easier with the sweat and the fatigue…we’ve seen Strickland’s cardio, and once Khamzat has to fight Strickland’s fight, I don’t think he has much of a chance. Khamzat throws hard and kicks hard, but not scary hard, and he’s a bit predictable. You can see the shots coming.”

Interestingly, Du Plessis is not alone in his opinion. Also, longtime UFC commentator Joe Rogan indicates that Strickland can threaten the champion, especially looking at his recent victories over opponents such as Israel Adesanya and Paulo Costa.

One thing is certain – the main event of UFC 328 promises to be a clash of styles in which any scenario is possible. If Strickland survives the initial onslaught, we are in for a real war of attrition.