In the Clinch: Strickland, du Plessis Ready to Give Toronto a Big Show, UFC 297 – The breath of controversial air that is middleweight champion Sean Strickland touched down earlier this week in Toronto.
True to his reputation, the American Strickland (28-5-0), 32, held open court on media day on many topics outside of the octagon. Most importantly, he seemed comfortable and at ease ahead of his title defense against No. 2 South African challenger Dricus du Plessis (20-2-0), 30, Saturday at UFC 297.
Strickland is like a vintage Colby Covington in many ways, saying a lot of controversial things that get a favorable response from a certain right-wing segment. But Covington is struggling to back up his words in recent fights. That same danger is apparent with Strickland.
Most fans remember the dealing these two had in the stands with du Plessis claiming psychological victory at UFC 296. The skills that these two have in the octagon almost get lost in the juicy storylines.
It’s important to remember however, that Strickland’s boxing will be critical and the ability to make du Plessis respect his standup. He needs to establish the unpredictabilit
y that he masterfully displayed in the Adesanya fight. I do really feel that Strickland is playing the games that he hopes pay off Saturday at the Scotiabank Arena.
Du Plessis overwhelmed former champion Robert Whittaker in his last contest and has the ground skills necessary to control Strickland on the mat. He is the pride and joy of the South African based MMA promotion Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC). Representing South Africa and being in Canada for the first time, he knows a win will make history.
And so, this fight is brimming with contrasting personalities and interesting fight styles. Strickland and du Plessis is a fun fight with the bonus of a title on the line. And finally, the City of Toronto gets to bask in the MMA spotlight.
Quick: What is the over under on Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Ontario premier Doug Ford facing up for reporters Saturday night?
In the Clinch: Strickland, du Plessis Ready to Give Toronto a Big Show, UFC 297 – More Resources
Sean Strickland
Dricus du Plessis
In the Clinch: Strickland, du Plessis Ready to Give Toronto a Big Show, UFC 297 – Image Gallery
GoGTS.net is happy to feature the thoughts of our contributors. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of GTS Distribution.
- In the Clinch: Nicolau Completely Focused On Replacement Perez, UFC Vegas 91 - April 26, 2024
- In the Clinch: All Eyes On Pereira & Hill at Historic UFC 300 - April 12, 2024
- In the Clinch: Curtis Excited to Jump in the Rankings, UFC Vegas 90 - April 5, 2024