Du Plessis warns Poatan about his strategy at UFC 320 and places confidence in his rival: 'I have to bet on him'

Dricus du Plessis and Alex Poatan have already flirted with a UFC fight. Photo: Montage/SUPER LUTAS

Protagonists of a high-profile rivalry in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Dricus du Plessis and Alex Poatan may be close to easing tensions. Looking ahead to the Brazilian's next fight at UFC 320, where he will seek to regain the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg), the South African surprised everyone and showed confidence in the athlete's victory over Magomed Ankalaev.

In a sincere stance, Du Plessis highlighted the energy shown by Poatan in videos and statements, but recognized the great moment experienced by the current champion.

See too

Poatan leaves decision about division change open, but warns: 'my weight is going up'

Renato Moicano admits refusal and explains reason for avoiding fight with Charles do Bronx at UFC Rio

VIDEO: Alex Poatan is mobbed by an internet celebrity at the UFC Performance Institute

"I've been watching Pereira's training footage for this fight. He looks scary. He looks furious. And, you know, we'll see what this loss does to him. He's already recovered from a loss and come back to win back the title, but this fight is very important to him. Ankalaev now has the confidence to be the champion, of course. But I'm going to bet on Pereira in this fight," Du Plessis stated in an interview with Fight Forecast.

Álex Poatan kicks Magomed Ankalaev. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC Espanol

Continuing his speech, the former middleweight champion suggested the best strategy for Poatan to adopt in the rematch and reinforced his confidence in the veteran's prediction of victory.

"It wasn't that he got knocked down. It was that he got choked. He'll need to keep his back away from the fence, and I believe they've dedicated enough time to work on that. Taking some time away from the sport was good for him... I really don't see this fight going to the finish this time, but I'm going to bet on Alex Pereira to win the title. I have to bet on him," he concluded.

Scheduled for UFC 320 that takes place this Saturday (04), Poatan is seen as a big underdog for a rematch against Ankalaev. Despite his status, the Brazilian promises a more aggressive stance and guarantees that this time he will knock out his rival in Las Vegas (USA).