Morning Report: Dricus du Plessis explains why Sean Strickland is so hard to fight, thinks Nassourdine Imavov loses rematch

Key Points:

• Dricus du Plessis respects Sean Strickland’s fighting ability, noting Strickland’s defensive ground game, fitness, and ability to dictate fight pace, which helped him upset Khamzat Chimaev for the UFC middleweight title at UFC 328.
• Du Plessis highlighted Strickland’s wrestling defense and endurance, emphasizing how Strickland’s style forced Chimaev into a less effective fight plan, ultimately leading to Strickland’s victory.
• Strickland is expected to defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov, whom Strickland previously defeated in a short-notice fight at light heavyweight; du Plessis doubts Imavov’s chances due to his similar style to former champ Israel Adesanya, against whom Strickland also succeeded.
• Du Plessis believes Strickland’s pressure and defensive striking will neutralize Imavov’s hit-and-run style, predicting a repeat outcome favoring Strickland in their upcoming rematch.
• The article also includes differing opinions, with some analysts viewing the potential Strickland vs. Imavov rematch as evenly matched and open to a split decision outcome.