Sean Strickland Predicts Dricus du Plessis Can Defeat Khamzat Chimaev With One Key Thing

Sean Strickland feels Dricus du Plessis has tools to defeat Khamzat Chimaev

Sean Strickland, Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev

There’s no doubt that Sean Strickland isn’t one to hold back his opinions. If he has something to say, he makes sure everyone hears it. Now, the American fighter has weighed in on UFC 319, sharing who he believes has the edge in the upcoming fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. As per him, he feels DDP can outclass Chimaev with just one thing which is counter wrestling.

Speaking in an interview with Helen Yee, ‘Tarzan’ shared his thoughts on a potential matchup between DDP and Chimaev. The former middleweight champion believes Dricus has a strong shot at victory if he can stop Chimaev’s wrestling. Strickland, who has trained with similar high-level wrestlers, emphasized that neutralizing Chimaev’s grappling is the key. If Dricus can manage that, Strickland is confident he’ll come out on top in the fight.

“I’ve been training with these f*****rs for years — I usually could counter-wrestle and grapple him. I don’t know if Dricus will be able to counter-wrestle him, but if he can, I think he wins hands down. I sparred the Chechen wh****. I think Dricus wins. I’ve been training with these old terrorists forever,” Strickland said.

There’s no denying that Chimaev is a dominant force in the early rounds, especially with his relentless wrestling. However, some believe du Plessis could turn the tide by using his cardio to wear Chimaev down. The strategy being suggested is to survive the early pressure, stay composed, and let Chimaev’s pace slow. If DDP can drag the fight into the championship rounds, many feel he has the tools to capitalize and possibly pull off something special.

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Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev

Dricus du Plessis had a sharp reaction to the announcement that Nassourdine Imavov will serve as the backup fighter for his upcoming bout with Khamzat Chimaev. Responding to the news, DDP simply stated, “Guess I’m fighting Nassourdine Imavov,” hinting at his doubts about Chimaev making it to fight night and suggesting he’s already preparing for a potential switch in opponents.

Indeed, UFC 319 is shaping up to be an event for the ages, with two of the most elite fighters set to clash for the middleweight title. It’s a high-stakes showdown where either man has the tools to walk away with the belt, making it one of the most anticipated matchups of the year.