UFC 297 Betting Prediciton: Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis 1/20/2024
As UFC 297 nears, Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis’ middleweight title bout stands out as an exciting highlight. Not only will it decide the title but it is also about pride and proving supremacy within this class of fighting. Fans and bettors seeking UFC 297 winning free picks should not miss this matchup at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto Ontario Canada as its details set the stage for an intense encounter!
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Sean Strickland Analysis
Sean Strickland has established himself as an outstanding fighter with 28 wins, 5 losses and no draws under his belt. Boasting an orthodox stance and equal reach at 76 inches with his opponent, Strickland makes for a formidable striker in the octagon. His average fight time of 14:43 attests to his stamina for prolonged bouts in title fights; 5.82 strikes per minute are evidence of this skill while his striking accuracy stands at 41% while 63% defense shows his formidableness but isn’t impenetrable compared with some opponents’ capabilities in title bouts.
Strickland averages 0.92 takedowns every 15 minutes with an impressive 64% takedown accuracy and 84% takedown defense, showing his ability to dominate in stand-up fighting. His takedown defense rate stands out further proving this fact, as does his submission rate averaging 0.2 submissions every 15 minutes – not to be overlooked! Strickland has proven himself against Adesanya that his striking skills and tactical acumen cannot be underrated; and as his approach for this fight will likely focus on maintaining it as a stand-up battle while using his striking skills against Du Plessis until tired out.
Dricus Du Plessis Analysis
Dricus Du Plessis enters this fight with a slightly shorter record but no less impressive: 20 wins and only two losses. His switch stance and equal reach make him an unpredictable and versatile opponent, while his aggressive fighting style, evidenced by an average fight time of 9:11, suggests his preference for quicker, more decisive battles; further evidenced by an outstanding Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM) of 6.95 as well as 55% striking accuracy accuracy could pose potential vulnerabilities against an experienced striker like Strickland.
Du Plessis excels at grappling, averaging 2.72 takedowns every 15 minutes at 50% accuracy with an impressive submission average of 1.1 per 15 minutes; his takedown defense at 40% may present him with difficulties against an experienced fighter like Strickland who may use takedowns against them to their advantage; his victory against Whittaker proves he can overcome experienced opponents; in this bout Du Plessis may focus on taking the fight down to the ground where his advantages lie and look for submission or ground-and-pound finishes.
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
As we examine both fighters’ strengths and weaknesses, this fight promises to be tactically intriguing. Strickland is seen as a slight favorite on paper due to his experience and striking skills; however, Du Plessis’ aggressive style and ground game present an immense threat. Strickland should aim to keep the fight standing by using his reach and striking accuracy to control pace and distance; on the other hand Du Plessis should exploit any opportunities that arise to take the fight down to use his superior grappling abilities to his advantage.
Given the close nature of this matchup, Sean Strickland seems like the better pick due to his experience, striking ability and takedown defense – giving him an edge in an expected mix of stand-up exchanges and grappling attempts. However, Du Plessis should not be underestimated as their power and aggression could easily turn the tables against Strickland at any moment.
Free Pick: Sean Strickland -124
UFC 297 promises to be an event filled with thrills and competitive matchups, highlighted by Sean Strickland vs Dricus Du Plessis’ middleweight title bout as one of its key events. Bettors looking for an edge should keep a close eye on this fight to increase their odds; whether watching at the venue itself or top online live betting websites.
