In the high-stakes world of the UFC, where skill, grit, and unorthodox styles collide, Sean Strickland is boldly proclaiming himself to be “a million times better” than Dricus Du Plessis.
However, as fight fans anticipate the main event clash at UFC 297 on January 20, 2024, Strickland acknowledges that Du Plessis’s peculiar and awkward fighting style could turn their encounter into a spectacular and unpredictable war.
Speaking candidly on YouTube, Strickland shared his insights, stating,
“I’m a million times better than him, I spar guys he’s fought, I know who he is. But he’s so awkward he’s good. It’s gonna be a fuc***g war. He’ll be a tougher fight than Chimaev.”
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Strickland didn’t hold back his opinions on Khamzat Chimaev, claiming that Chimaev’s popularity, rather than his merit, secured him a title shot. Strickland dismissed Chimaev’s credibility, asserting,
“Chimaev, he doesn’t fuc***g deserve it. We all know that. The only reason why Chimaev gets that shot is because he sells a lot of tickets.”
Despite his confident stance, Strickland acknowledged the uniqueness that Du Plessis brings to the octagon. “I think Dricus is like so awkward he’s good,” he admitted. The acknowledgment of Du Plessis’s unorthodox style adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming fight, elevating it beyond a mere clash of skills to a battle of contrasting techniques.
Du Plessis, currently ranked No. 2 in the 185-pound division, emerged victorious in the battle for the title shot against the highly-touted Khamzat Chimaev. The decision, however, raised eyebrows, as UFC CEO Dana White had previously hinted at a championship opportunity for Chimaev following his win over Kamaru Usman at UFC 294.
In response to the controversy, Strickland expressed his contentment with the matchup, stating,
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“I’m happy with Dricus. It’s gonna be a hell of a fight, and I’m just happy the UFC is doing the right thing. He’s next in line, he f***ing deserves it”
The fighter’s satisfaction with the matchmaking process reveals a longing for a return to a more traditional and merit-based ranking system in the sport.
Strickland’s plea for a return to professionalism in the sport’s governance adds a layer of urgency and frustration, as he criticizes recent discrepancies in rankings and decisions.
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“They’ve been doing a lot of fery lately with rankings and bulls. Just fuc***g wrong, man. We need to go back to a professional sport where rankings matter because as of now, rankings mean f-all s***,”
he passionately asserted.
As the fighters prepare for battle and emotions run high, UFC 297 is shaping up to be more than just a sporting event. It’s becoming a battleground of principles, a fight for recognition, and a call for a return to the fundamentals of the sport.
Sean Strickland is one of a kind 😅 #UFC297 #MMA pic.twitter.com/4lBgG6jGWz
— bjpenndotcom (@bjpenndotcom) November 10, 2023
With dueling narratives and contrasting styles, Strickland and Du Plessis are set to deliver not just a fight but a spectacle that could redefine the conversation around merit and spectacle in the UFC.
The stage is set, and the fighters are ready to ignite the octagon with the fire of competition and a quest for true sporting glory.
Sheila’s Note:
In the fervor of UFC 297, Strickland’s candid remarks and Du Plessis’s unorthodox style promise an explosive clash. As the fighters vie for victory, Strickland’s plea for professionalism adds depth to the narrative, turning the event into a battleground not just for titles, but for the essence of the sport.
