Former champion makes bold revelation and gives his prediction for the fight between Chimaev and Strickland at UFC 328; find out more.

Image montage used to promote the Chimaev vs. Strickland fight at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC

CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISING:

In the countdown to one of the most anticipated fights of 2026, various personalities from the MMA world have differing opinions on the direction of the duel between Khamzat Shimaev e Sean Strickland, valid for the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg). In this context, the point of view of the few athletes who have had the opportunity to face both deserves attention. Thus, Dricus Du Plessis surprised when analyzing the duel during his participation in the 'Fight Forecast' podcast last Tuesday (5).

See too

Retarded? Sean Strickland forgets Chimaev and slams rival after UFC attack: 'Bitch and idiot'

Can he be trusted? Chimaev downplays rivalry with Strickland and promises to fight only in the octagon at UFC 328.

Don't forget! Khamzat Chimaev mocks retired UFC fighter Gilbert Burns and taunts him: 'I warned you!'

Contrary to popular belief, the South African stated that Strickland would have physical advantages over the current champion. This advantage, in theory, could help him prevent the Chechen's takedown and ground control game in order to regain the belt.

“Strickland is a strong guy, much stronger than Khamzat on a physical level… If Strickland gets up two or three times in that first round, it’s not going to get any easier (for Khamzat). Once Khamzat has to fight in Strickland’s style, I simply think (Khamzat) doesn’t stand a chance,” he declared.

Dricus du Plessis think Sean Strickland has a really good chance to beat Khamzat Shimaev 👀

“Strickland is a strong guy, a lot stronger than Khamzat on a physical level… If Strickland gets up 2-3 times in that first round, it's not gonna get any easier [for Khamzat].

Once… pic.twitter.com/YFTXDQDbXB

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 6, 2026

Dricus Du Plessis defeated Strickland, but lost to Chimaev.

Dricus du Plessis after defeat to Khamzat Shimaev. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @dricusduplessis

Du Plessis experienced many memorable moments inside the octagon, both against Strickland and Chimaev. He became champion by defeating the American in a controversial split decision. UFC 297They faced each other again in February 2025, with another victory for the South African by decision, this time in a much more dominant performance.

While he became champion by defeating Strickland, he relinquished the top spot in the division by sharing the octagon with the Chechen. In a completely unbalanced performance, Chimaev physically dominated and repeatedly took down Du Plessis to become the new king of the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg).