Michael Bisping Pulls the Curtain on Possible ‘Trap’ Sean Strickland Is Laying Out to Beat Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 312 Fight

This bold statement has added even more intrigue to the highly anticipated rematch, set to headline the year’s first major event in Australia. As the fight approaches, Sean Strickland’s unconventional challenge has also caught the attention of Michael Bisping, who recently shed light on ‘Tarzan’s preparation in a YouTube video. Drawing from reports at Eric Nicksick’s Xtreme Couture gym, Bisping remarked, “Sean can grapple with the best of them, and I believe in this fight, Sean Strickland is putting a little red herring out there. He’s trying to set a trap for Dricus because Sean is probably going to be the one shooting for takedowns himself.”

‘The Count’ also shed light on Sean Strickland’s evolving wrestling skills, mentioning his sparring sessions with UFC 205-lb contender Magomed Ankalaev, a combat sambo specialist. “I’ve heard reports that, in the gym, he goes out there and out-wrestles Magomed,” Bisping shared. Analyzing the former champ’s potential game plan, Bisping suggested that Strickland might capitalize on the newly lifted ban on the 12-to-6 elbow strike, adding another layer to his strategy for the rematch.

While Strickland’s striking remains his trademark, Bisping hinted at an added element of psychological warfare – “Sean might be playing a little bit of a mind game here with Dricus Du Plessis—or maybe he’s just saying the first thing that comes out of his mouth,”

What does the “Lion” Dricus Du Plessis think of Sean Strickland’s challenge?

Dricus Du Plessis has been a strong critic of Sean Strickland’s conservative fighting style, believing that Strickland’s primary goal is simply to defeat him. In response to ‘Tarzan’s’ challenge this week, where Strickland said, “I know you like to wrestle and choke people out, and do some gay s**t,“. Responding to Sean Strickland’s challenge on X (formerly Twitter), Dricus Du Plessis declared, “There are no pacts between Lions and men,” referring to himself as a lion—an iconic symbol of strength—representing his homeland of South Africa.

Even though ‘Stillknocks’ has a style that is effective, albeit awkward on the feet, the South African native is an incredible grappler with 11 submission wins on his record. Three years ago, ‘DDP’ competed in the Submissions Kings Quintet grappling event, representing CIT MMA. The outcome? He submitted all five members of Team Gracie Barra to win the bout. Last year, the South African made a successful title defense against Israel Adesanya at UFC 304, making him tap in the fourth round via face crank, becoming the first person to defeat ‘The Last Stylebender’ via submission.

Since his UFC debut, ‘Stillknocks’ has remained undefeated, extending his win streak to eight fights. As UFC 312 draws near, ‘Stillknocks’ aims to defend his title and continue his dominance in the division. Will Dricus Du Plessis successfully retain his title in this rematch, or could Sean Strickland pull off the upset of the year? Share your thoughts below.