In the marquee clash of UFC 297, a controversial figure in the MMA realm, Sean Strickland, is set to defend his middleweight championship against the formidable Dricus du Plessis.
Strickland, known for polarizing remarks, symbolizes a shift in the UFC’s approach, intertwining politics and sports. His title victory over Israel Adesanya, arising from du Plessis’s inability to face Adesanya earlier, added to the controversy. Du Plessis, who ascended the division ranks with a surprising win over elite fighter Robert Whittaker, now poses a significant challenge to Strickland.
As the event unfolds on Saturday night, let’s delve into the comprehensive fight card, examining the latest odds. Subsequently, we will present our staff’s predictions and selections for the Pay-Per-View segment of the proceedings.
UFC 297 Fight Card and Odds:
- Sean Strickland (c) -110 vs. Dricus du Plessis -110, Middleweight Title
- Mayra Bueno Silva -170 vs. Raquel Pennington +145, Women’s Bantamweight Title
- Mike Malott -370 vs. Neil Magny +290, Welterweights
- Chris Curtis -190 vs. Marc-Andre Barriault +160, Middleweights
- Movsar Evloev -200 vs. Arnold Allen +170, Featherweights
- Brad Katona -210 vs. Garrett Armfield +175, Bantamweights
- Charles Jourdain -205 vs. Sean Woodson +170, Featherweights
- Serhiy Sidey -180 vs. Ramon Taveras +155, Bantamweights
- Gillian Robertson -320 vs. Polyana Viana +250, Women’s Strawweights
- Yohan Lainesse -150 vs. Sam Patterson +125, Welterweights
- Jasmine Jasudavicius -380 vs. Priscila Cachoeira +300, Women’s Flyweights
- Malcolm Gordon -220 vs. Jimmy Flick +180, Flyweights
Strickland vs. du Plessis Analysis:
Campbell: Strickland’s victory over Adesanya showcased striking perfection, but du Plessis, with his size and physicality, poses a different challenge. Du Plessis, though raw, demonstrated rapid technical evolution, evident in his upset over Whittaker. Strickland’s historical struggles against power punchers suggest du Plessis could secure a knockout victory.
Brookhouse: Strickland’s triumph over Adesanya seemed influenced by the latter’s off night rather than Strickland’s flawless execution. Du Plessis’s raw and wild style, coupled with his improved technique, may disrupt Strickland, particularly given Strickland’s vulnerability to physically robust opponents.
Mahjouri: Strickland faces an offensive force in du Plessis, necessitating robust defense. Du Plessis’s commitment to aggressive tactics creates openings, and while technically sound, his unrefined style presents opportunities. Strickland, supported by the expertise of his coaching team, aims to neutralize du Plessis’s offense, foreseeing a decision victory.
Wise: Despite the verbal sparring, Strickland appears uneasy with the heightened attention as the champion. His recent comments hint at a shift in demeanor. Du Plessis’s potent one-punch power could pose a threat, especially if he can close the distance early or take the fight to the ground.