Dricus Du Plessis Says Strickland Can Outstrike Chimaev Before UFC 328
The buildup to UFC 328 has taken on a new dimension after former middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis publicly backed Sean Strickland’s chances against reigning champion Khamzat Chimaev. Having faced both fighters inside the Octagon, Du Plessis offered a rare perspective on the stylistic clash set to headline the May 9 card in Newark, arguing that Strickland’s stand-up could create serious problems for the undefeated champion. His remarks have fueled debate among analysts and fans about whether Chimaev’s dominant grappling will once again dictate the outcome or whether Strickland’s striking discipline can reshape the division’s title picture.
Du Plessis Sees a Striking Edge for Strickland
Du Plessis, who lost the UFC middleweight title to Chimaev at UFC 319 last August, weighed in on the upcoming matchup during a recent appearance on the SA Boxing Talk podcast. The South African contender suggested that while Chimaev’s grappling remains elite, the striking exchange favors the challenger.
According to Du Plessis, Strickland’s defensive boxing and relentless jab could disrupt Chimaev if the fight stays upright. The former champion emphasized that Strickland’s striking fundamentals — pressure, volume, and durability — make him a difficult opponent in prolonged stand-up battles.
While praising Strickland’s offensive rhythm, Du Plessis also noted that the American’s composure under pressure is often overlooked, particularly against aggressive opponents.
Wrestling Remains Chimaev’s Defining Weapon
Despite his confidence in Strickland’s striking, Du Plessis acknowledged the champion’s biggest advantage: grappling dominance.
Chimaev’s rise through multiple divisions has largely been built on his ability to control opponents on the mat, where his relentless takedowns and positional pressure overwhelm even seasoned fighters. Once opponents are grounded, Chimaev’s pace can quickly drain their energy and neutralize offensive output.
Du Plessis said that dynamic remains the central variable in the UFC 328 main event. If Chimaev succeeds in closing distance and initiating wrestling exchanges, the fight could swing dramatically in the champion’s favor.
The undefeated champion enters the bout with a perfect professional record and a reputation as one of the promotion’s most physically imposing middleweights.
Questions About Chimaev’s Evolution as Champion
Du Plessis also raised questions about how adaptable Chimaev can be over multiple title defenses.
Champions often evolve their skill sets after reaching the top of the division, expanding striking arsenals or refining defensive tactics. Du Plessis suggested he has not yet seen that level of stylistic growth from Chimaev.
From his perspective, Chimaev’s victory over him was less about versatility and more about executing a focused game plan built around grappling control. That approach proved decisive in their title fight, but Du Plessis hinted it could leave openings for a fighter who thrives in striking exchanges.
Such comments highlight a broader debate within the MMA community about whether Chimaev’s championship run will eventually demand a more balanced skill set.
Du Plessis Still Eyeing a Rematch
Although attention has shifted to the upcoming title defense, Du Plessis made clear he has not abandoned hopes of reclaiming the belt.
The former champion suggested a rematch with Chimaev could play out differently now that he has analyzed the weaknesses exposed during their first meeting. He believes adjustments to his defensive grappling could change the dynamics of a second fight.
At the same time, Du Plessis admitted that a rematch is not necessarily the most compelling storyline for the division at the moment. With new challengers emerging and the title picture evolving rapidly, the middleweight landscape may continue to shift depending on the outcome of UFC 328.
UFC 328 Stakes for the Middleweight Division
The UFC 328 main event will see Chimaev defend the middleweight championship for the first time since capturing the title. Strickland secured his opportunity with a knockout victory over Anthony Hernandez earlier this year, reestablishing himself as a top contender.
For Chimaev, the bout represents the first step in defining his reign as champion. For Strickland, it offers a chance to reclaim the belt and potentially reset the division’s competitive hierarchy.
Du Plessis’ analysis adds another layer of intrigue: if Strickland can force extended striking exchanges, the fight may unfold far differently than many expect.
The middleweight title clash will take place May 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark, where one of the UFC’s most unpredictable divisions could see another dramatic shift.
Source: https://www.mmanews.com/article/dricus-du-plessis-chimaev-strickland-ufc-328-loss-reaction