Du Plessis stays tactical ahead of UFC 312 fight with Strickland

Dricus du Plessis is not entertaining Sean Strickland’s request to “stand up like f***ing men” in the main event of UFC 312 next month.

The two fight for the UFC middleweight belt at the Sydney-based event on February 8, with du Plessis a $1.53 favourite across top betting apps to record his second win over the American.

Earlier this week, Strickland called for their rematch to be a striking-only affair, saying, “I’m going to need you to stand up, not go to your knees, and we’re going to need to strike like men.”

The South African responded on Saturday, dismissing the idea quickly.

“Look, it’s a ridiculous thing to ask,” he said.

“If you want to make pacts about us just standing up, go do boxing.

“I don’t go into fights thinking I have to stand up or take the guy down.

“I do what the situation tells me to do.

“That’s what MMA fighters do, I’m comfortable everywhere.”

Du Plessis’ response comes after their earlier fight – which he won by split decision in January 2024 – was primarily conducted on the feet, a trend he acknowledges will likely continue at UFC 312.

“I think we are most likely going to keep it standing,” he said.

“I know I have the cardio, know I can push him back, and I know I have the power to knock him out, so for me that’s great.

“Then, if the opportunity comes to get a takedown, it’s a decision you have to make immediately. If you see the moment you take it.”

Method of victory odds at UFC bookmakers expect that February’s fight will end the same way as their earlier clash, with odds of $2.95 for du Plessis winning by decision.

Strickland winning on points is the next most likely outcome, returning $3.15 at BetOnline.

Odds for a knockout are longer, with du Plessis at $5 and Strickland paying $11.

But a submission win for either has the longest odds with Marantelli Bet, sitting at $6.50 for du Plessis and an unlikely $29 for Strickland.

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