Dricus Du Plessis, the former UFC middleweight champion, has shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated light heavyweight championship bout. UFC 320 is set to take place this Saturday in Las Vegas, featuring Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira in the main event, competing for the light heavyweight title.
Their initial encounter at UFC 313 earlier this year saw Ankalaev secure a surprising victory, outclassing the Brazilian in a five-round striking display that highlighted his own formidable kickboxing prowess. As the rematch approaches, opinions among fans and professional fighters are divided. A notable kickboxing legend, for instance, has predicted that Pereira will decisively `crush` his Russian opponent to reclaim the championship.
Dricus Du Plessis` Unexpected UFC 320 Prediction
Before their first bout, Ankalaev stunned many by declaring his intention to strike with `Poatan` rather than relying on wrestling, a strategy that ultimately proved successful. Pereira, however, recently disclosed that he was fighting at merely 40% capacity due to pre-existing injuries, which he believes led to his underwhelming showing. Nonetheless, `Poatan` reports being fully recovered and in high spirits for the rematch, stating that the break has been highly beneficial. Given the immense anticipation surrounding this second clash, former UFC middleweight king Dricus Du Plessis has offered his unexpected prediction.
“Pereira is a brilliant fighter; he`s intimidating because of his immense power and willingness to advance, even through danger. He walks you down without hesitation,” Du Plessis stated on Fight Forecast. “In their first encounter, Ankalaev cleverly maintained distance before closing in to stifle Pereira, forcing him onto his back foot. Pereira is not at his best when retreating; that`s simply not his preferred method.”
Du Plessis concluded his assessment with his prediction: “Now, they both understand Ankalaev`s strategy to bridge the distance. While Ankalaev has stated he`ll strike with him again, I genuinely believe that`s ill-advised. Ultimately, I don`t foresee this fight going the full distance this time, and my wager is on Pereira.”
Alex Pereira`s Opportunity to Break a UFC Record at UFC 320
Initially recognized as a prominent figure in combat sports, `Poatan` has recently transitioned into a leading contender in the light heavyweight division. His remarkable dominance in the 205-pound category over recent years is truly significant. Should he defeat the Russian champion on Saturday, Pereira stands to surpass Daniel Cormier`s record for the highest number of light heavyweight title victories.
