Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis UFC 297 – As the UFC 297 showdown approaches, the MMA world buzzes with excitement. On Saturday, two formidable middleweights, Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis, will face off in a highly anticipated title bout. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly analyzing the matchup, looking to make informed MMA betting picks and odds. This fight not only promises high-level martial arts action but also a significant impact on the middleweight division’s landscape.
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis
When: Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET
Where: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
TV: ESPN+
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis UFC 297 Betting Odds
| Moneyline | |
| Strickland | -124 |
| Du Plessis | +104 |
Sean Strickland Analysis
Sean Strickland stands out amongst UFC middleweight division fighters as an impressive striker with his impressive 28-5-0 record and average fight time of 14:43, reflecting his endurance and tactical savvy. Additionally, Strickland stands at 6’1″, giving him physical parity against Du Plessis; thus negating any significant reach advantage he might possess.
Strickland’s striking game is an integral element of his fight strategy. Averaging 5.82 significant strikes per minute at 41% accuracy demonstrates a high-volume, aggressive approach. Unfortunately, his striking defense stands at 63% which may leave him vulnerable to counterstrikes from Du Plessis and other competitors. Grappling-wise he averages 0.92 takedowns every 15 minutes with 64% accuracy while also boasting an 84% takedown defense posing significant challenges to Du Plessis’ grappling-heavy approach.
Strickland proved his skill at controlling elite strikers during his recent win against Adesanya. That experience will prove instrumental against Du Plessis; combined with his orthodox stance and high-stakes fight experience, making Strickland an imposing opponent.
Dricus Du Plessis Analysis
Dricus Du Plessis, with an impressive record of 20-2-0 and an average fight time of 9:11, brings his unique style to this middleweight title fight. Du Plessis shares Strickland’s height of 6’1″, as well as their physical similarities (both standing at 6’1″ with an 76″ reach). This contest should provide exciting combat.
Du Plessis boasts impressive striking statistics, landing an average of 6.95 significant strikes per minute at 55% accuracy – suggesting a more effective striking game than Strickland’s; however, his defense at 53% shows potential vulnerabilities against volume strikers like Strickland. Du Plessis’ grappling stats stand out; with 2.72 takedowns every 15 minutes with 50% accuracy and an impressive submission average of 1.1 submissions every 15 minutes underscoring his ground fighting expertise.
Du Plessis’ victory against Whittaker demonstrated his ability to manage top-tier competition. Du Plessis’ switch stance allows for flexible striking exchanges against an orthodox fighter like Strickland.
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis Stats
| Strickland | Du Plessis | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 28-5-0 | 20-2-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 14:43 | 9:11 |
| Height | 6′ 1″ | 6′ 1″ |
| Weight | 185 lbs. | 185 lbs. |
| Reach | 76″ | 76″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Switch |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 5.82 | 6.95 |
| Striking Accuracy | 41% | 55% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 4.24 | 3.79 |
| Defense | 63% | 53% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 0.92 | 2.72 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 64% | 50% |
| Takedown Defense | 84% | 40% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.2 | 1.1 |
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis Betting Picks
Consider their respective styles and strengths, this matchup promises to be both strategic and physical chess match. Strickland could present Du Plessis with significant difficulty if they choose to fight standing-up, however his superior grappling and submission abilities might make an impactful statement if he takes control of the fight to the floor.
According to betting odds, with Strickland at -124 and Du Plessis at +104, this fight should be closely contested. Strickland may hold an edge due to his experience and recent performance against top contenders; however, Du Plessis’ dynamic fighting style and aggressive grappling make him an equally dangerous underdog in this bout.
Free Pick: Sean Strickland -124
UFC 297’s title bout between Strickland and Du Plessis promises more than just two skilled fighters; it will also showcase an exciting clash of strategies and styles, captivating fans as well as bettors alike. Canadian online sportsbooks present an engaging opportunity for bettors. Both fighters possess enough talent and recent performance to claim victory, making this matchup one of the most unpredictable and thrilling UFC history has seen!
