Dricus du Plessis Backs Sean Strickland to Beat Nassourdine Imavov in UFC Title Rematch
- Dricus du Plessis broke down exactly what makes Sean Strickland one of the hardest fighters to defeat at middleweight
- Du Plessis weighed in on the expected title bout between Strickland and top contender Nassourdine Imavov
- The South African fighter pointed to a key tactical reason why he believes Imavov's style plays into Strickland's hands
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Former UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has predicted that Sean Strickland will successfully defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov, citing Strickland's ability to impose his style on opponents as the decisive factor.
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Du Plessis shared his views on the Fight Forecast podcast, published on 7 October 2026. The South African has extensive first-hand experience with Strickland, having faced him across two middleweight title fights totalling 50 minutes of combined action.
Du Plessis holds a 2-0 record against Strickland, though it is Strickland who currently holds the belt after upsetting Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328.
What makes Strickland so difficult to beat
Du Plessis credited Strickland's ground defence and relentless pace as central to his success, pointing to the Chimaev fight as proof of concept.
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"He's always been a great wrestler," du Plessis said.
"I took him down, I think seven times, but to hold him down is very, very hard. He is hard to hold down. He is very fit. He can always go five rounds. And he's so good at dragging people into his style."
Du Plessis described how Strickland wore Chimaev down by refusing to disengage, even from unfavourable positions.
Du Plessis picks Strickland to repeat against Imavov
Although no official announcement has been made, the expected next challenger for Strickland's title is Imavov, who has strung together five consecutive victories, including a knockout of former champion Israel Adesanya. Strickland defeated Imavov by unanimous decision in 2023, a short-notice contest at 205 pounds.
Du Plessis acknowledged Imavov's momentum but argued that little has changed in either fighter's approach since their first meeting.
Du Plessis lost the middleweight title to Chimaev prior to Strickland's title run, meaning a future rematch with Strickland would also serve as a potential route back to championship contention for the South African.
Sean Strickland Injured in rollover vehicle accident
Briefly News previously reported that UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland was involved in a serious vehicle accident that left him with visible injuries
Strickland revealed he was not behind the wheel when the vehicle rolled six times at around 60mph
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Source: Briefly News
