Dricus du Plessis explains why he had more striking success against Sean Strickland than Israel Adesanya
Dricus du Plessis defeated Sean Strickland at UFC 297 via split decision to win the middleweight title. The South African fighter was able to land punches with a regularity that was not seen when Israel Adesanya fought Strickland.
With Adesanya viewed as arguably the greatest striker in the history of the middleweight division, du Plessis was asked what made the difference for him against 'Tarzan'.
'Stillknocks' will hope to defend his title against Strickland at UFC 312 in February when they clash for a second time. Ahead of the bout, the champion was recently interviewed by Australian broadcaster, Main Event, where du Plessis explained why he found more success against the American than Adesanya did.
He said:
"I don't mind getting punched in the face. That was the biggest difference. That what is. I'll take one to give one because I know mine's harder. I think that's the biggest difference. I went and fought Strickland on his strength, I made him go backwards."
He continued:
"If you look at Paulo Costa and [Adesanya], they were running. They were trying to set something up. Strickland is too good if you're going to try and do that. He's too good. If you give him that momentum he's going to keep on coming and coming, he's a bully-fighter. He likes to bully people."
Catch Dricus du Plessis' comments below (8:40):
Dricus du Plessis explains decision to fight Sean Strickland instead of Khamzat Chimaev
During Dricus du Plessis' aforementioned interview with Main Event, he admitted that a title clash with Khamzat Chimaev had been on the table.
The Chechen's UFC 308 submission win over Robert Whittaker saw many fans call for 'Borz' to face Du Plessis in a title fight, with Sean Strickland expected to be the South African's next opponent.
However, the promotion confirmed several days ago that the middleweight title fight set to headline UFC 312 will feature du Plessis and Strickland. The South African followed on from the announcement by sharing the reason why he will face 'Tarzan' and not Chimaev.
He wrote:
"Just for clarification I preferred the Khamzat fight but the rematch is a fight most wanted before Khamzat vs. Whittaker. I'm not unhappy with the UFC's decision. Like I said, I'll fight the man fans think is the next best guy. He was promised the fight so Strickland it is."
Check out Dricus du Plessis' post below: