Dricus du Plessis Breaks Down Khamzat Chimaev vs Sean Strickland Fight

Dricus du Plessis, the former UFC middleweight champion, broke down the UFC 328 main event between rivals Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland.

Du Plessis has fought both Chimaev and Strickland, making him the perfect person to ask about the upcoming title fight.

He won the UFC middleweight title by defeating Strickland via split decision at UFC 297 in January 2024.

Du Plessis believes the first round will be crucial in determining the outcome of the fight.

He thinks Chimaev will try to take Strickland down, but Strickland's ability to get up will be a major factor.

Du Plessis said Strickland has the cardio to keep up with Chimaev, and if he can avoid being taken down, he may be able to pull off the upset.

The betting odds for the fight see Chimaev as a -550 favorite, with Strickland as a +420 underdog.

Despite the lopsided odds, Du Plessis thinks Strickland has a chance to win.

He believes Strickland's defense is one of the best in MMA, and if he can avoid Chimaev's attacks, he may be able to snatch the title.

Du Plessis lost his belt to Chimaev at UFC 319 in August 2025, but he thinks Strickland has the tools to defeat him.

The fight is set to take place on Saturday at UFC 328, and Du Plessis' analysis provides valuable insight into what to expect from the highly anticipated bout.