"Article discussing Du Plessis' success: "Baffled by his consistent victories"."
In the build-up to UFC 319, British UFC fighter Michael Page has been reflecting on the fighting style of middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis. In a conversation with Ariel Helwani, Page initially found du Plessis' style "all kinds of strange" and not to his liking. However, as the title fight against Khamzat Chimaev approaches on August 17, Page's opinion seems to have evolved.
Du Plessis, known for his awkward, relentless pressure style that focuses on endurance and disrupting opponents, has been successful in the middleweight division. This was evident until his title fight at UFC 319, where Khamzat Chimaev countered his approach effectively with control and wrestling-based tactics, leaving Du Plessis rarely able to initiate offense.
Despite Du Plessis' initial success, Page initially would bet on Chimaev without hesitation. However, his recent comments suggest a change of heart. Michael Page, who is noted for a unique style contrasting with other fighters, has not publicly analysed Du Plessis' style in a detailed manner ahead of this fight in available sources.
Interestingly, Page has expressed surprise at the success of Du Plessis. This sentiment is shared by many, as Du Plessis' unorthodox approach to fighting has often left spectators questioning how he manages to secure victories.
Meanwhile, it's not just Du Plessis who is making waves in the UFC. Fellow middleweight Anatoly Tokov has left Fedor Team, and rising star Mokaev is preparing for a move to the lightweight division. Mokaev, who has sparred with Yan and Nurmagomedov in his preparation, will undoubtedly bring a fresh dynamic to the lightweight division.
As we approach UFC 319, the spotlight is on Du Plessis and Chimaev. With Page's changed perspective and the surprise factor surrounding Du Plessis, the middleweight title fight promises to be an exciting spectacle.
Bookmakers might find it challenging to predict the outcome of the middleweight title fight between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, given Michael Page's recent comments indicating a change of heart about Du Plessis' fighting style. The unorthodox approach of Du Plessis continues to intrigue spectators, as seen by the growing interest in his fight against Chimaev at UFC 319.
