Israel Adesanya is no stranger to the two fighters headlining UFC 312. With history in the Octagon against both Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland, the former middleweight champion knows just how intense their rematch in Sydney, Australia, is shaping up to be.
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Adesanya Gives the Edge to Du Plessis
Dricus Du Plessis is set to defend his middleweight title against Sean Strickland on fight night. While many thought Khamzat Chimaev might get the next shot after his dominant win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, the UFC surprised fans by booking Strickland instead. Even Du Plessis himself had hinted at wanting to face Chimaev, but the rematch with Strickland took priority.
As someone who has fought both men, Adesanya shared his thoughts on the matchup during an interview with MMAJunkie: “I say that Dricus wins that one, if it’s close maybe, or maybe it’s more decisive this time, it’s gonna be a hard fight for both men but I think I would give the edge to Dricus in this fight.”
Strickland, never one to shy away from mind games, recently suggested a “gentleman’s agreement” with Du Plessis to keep the fight standing. Whether this plan sticks once the fists start flying remains uncertain.
A History with Both Fighters
Adesanya’s prediction carries weight, given his history with both fighters. Strickland pulled off one of the biggest upsets in title history when he defeated Adesanya to claim the belt. Meanwhile, Du Plessis handed Adesanya a crushing defeat at UFC 305, submitting him in the fourth round to defend the title.
As the rematch approaches, Adesanya will be watching closely from the stands in Sydney, where he’ll also be supporting his teammates. His insider perspective adds another layer of intrigue to an already thrilling matchup.
Will Du Plessis prove he’s the rightful champion, or will Strickland shock the world again? For now, Adesanya is betting on Du Plessis, but anything can happen when the cage door closes
