Israel Adesanya, the former UFC middleweight champion, recently shared his analysis on the upcoming middleweight title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev scheduled for UFC 319. Despite a past rivalry with Du Plessis, Adesanya predicted that Du Plessis will endure Chimaev’s early aggression and secure a late victory, showcasing his insight into the fight’s dynamics.
Adesanya Foresees Du Plessis Overcoming Chimaev’s Initial Onslaught
Known for his precise evaluations, Adesanya frequently breaks down fights on his FREESTYLEBENDER YouTube channel by examining each fighter‘s strengths and weaknesses. On this occasion, he noted that while Chimaev aims to finish Du Plessis quickly, the outcome hinges on whether Du Plessis can withstand the initial assault and capitalize in later rounds.
Khamzat showed his hand, he’s going to go after him from the get-go. But I think DDP will weather the storm, and probably finish Khamzat later on, because Khamzat, if it gets to Rounds 3, 4, 5, it’s going to be a problem. I say Round 3 or 4, DDP. But if Khamzat is going to win, it’s going to be in the first round, spectacular and violent. I am gonna go with DDP. He’ll get it done, He’s stubborn, I am gonna go Dricus by late TKO.
—Israel Adesanya on FREESTYLEBENDER YT Channel
Adesanya highlighted that Chimaev’s best chance of victory would be an early and powerful finish, but if the fight extends beyond the initial rounds, Du Plessis’ endurance and resilience could turn the tide. He referenced Chimaev’s tendency to exhaust himself in longer fights and suggested that Du Plessis’ stamina would give him an advantage in later stages.
The Backdrop of a Rivalry and Respect Between Adesanya and Du Plessis
Fans still recall the intensity of the rivalry between Adesanya and Du Plessis from their bout at UFC 305 last August. Despite their competition, both fighters have expressed mutual respect post-fight. Du Plessis admitted feeling nervous facing Adesanya, underlining the high regard in which he holds the former champion.
Adesanya himself has expressed interest in facing Chimaev after witnessing the Chechen’s dominant performance against Robert Whittaker. However, Adesanya’s plans were stalled following a loss to Nassourdine Imavov, leaving the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev clash to take center stage.
Fan Divisions and the Stakes of This Title Fight
The matchup between Du Plessis and Chimaev has become a pivotal moment in MMA, with both competitors undefeated in the UFC. Fans and analysts remain divided on who holds the edge. Many view Chimaev’s superior wrestling and explosive striking as a compelling advantage, while others recognize Du Plessis’ proven skills and capacity to exploit openings when his opponent slows down.
Du Plessis has proved his worth against top-tier fighters and is determined to demonstrate his all-around MMA ability in this high-profile contest. This fight is shaping up to test the limits of both athletes’ talent and endurance.
Du Plessis Shares His Aggressive Strategy for Facing Chimaev
Dricus Du Plessis has outlined a bold game plan for his bout against Chimaev, emphasizing offense over defense. Acknowledging the danger of Chimaev’s relentless takedown attempts and power, Du Plessis intends to confront him head-on rather than retreat.
It’s going to be absolute chaos. I don’t see him coming with a different game plan, and me neither I am going in there to kill him; I am not going out there to defend Khamzat’s takedowns, I am going out there to attack. I think its going to look a little bit different.
—Dricus Du Plessis via Submission Radio
Du Plessis emphasized that his proactive approach aims to disrupt Chimaev’s rhythm and prevent him from controlling the pace, referencing Chimaev’s previous victories over Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns. He believes that continuous pressure and attack are essential to overcoming Chimaev’s renowned aggression and wrestling dominance.
Du Plessis Confident in His Wrestling Skills and Overall MMA Prowess
Adding to his strategy, Du Plessis highlighted his wrestling ability, which he argues is often underestimated. To date, no UFC competitor has successfully outwrestled him, a point he intends to prove in the title fight. His aim is to display comprehensive MMA skills by handling any style Chimaev throws at him.
Both fighters enter this fight undefeated, with wins over former champions, raising the stakes even higher. Du Plessis wants to cement his status as a true champion by facing and defeating a versatile and powerful opponent like Chimaev.
The Implications of the Bout for MMA’s Future Landscape
The confrontation between Du Plessis and Chimaev carries significance well beyond a title change. The middleweight championship will likely pivot the division’s hierarchy and impact the strategic approaches fighters use against aggressive wrestlers and power strikers.
The outcome could define the durability necessary to withstand early onslaughts versus explosive finishes, offering lessons for both fans and fighters. Adesanya’s Israel Adesanya fight predictions shed light on the contest’s unpredictability and underline the importance of stamina and adaptability in championship-level fights.