UFC 297 Showdown: Strickland and Du Plessis Predict No Distance Fight Amid Controversy

Strickland Warns Du Plessis Against Personal Attacks; Accuses UFC of Instigating Brawl

UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland will defend his title against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 297, with both fighters predicting the bout will not go the distance.
Strickland has warned Du Plessis against bringing up his childhood abuse during their verbal exchanges, threatening to stab him if he does so.
Strickland has also accused the UFC of deliberately seating him and Du Plessis close to each other at UFC 296, leading to a physical altercation between the two.
Du Plessis has dismissed Strickland's boxing style, stating that he is a more complete MMA fighter and will test Strickland in every aspect of the sport.
Strickland is expected to receive $542,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis is set to take home $382,000, not including any performance or fight of the night bonuses.