MMA Preview – Derek Brunson vs Dricus du Plessis at UFC 285
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DEREK BRUNSON VS DRICUS DU PLESSIS FACTS
When is UFC 285? Sunday 5th March, 2023 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC 285? T-Mobile Arena, Paradise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 285? Click here to buy tickets for UFC 285
What channel is UFC 285 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC 285? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
DEREK BRUNSON VS DRICUS DU PLESSIS LOWDOWN
Derek Brunson (23-8) finally returns after Jared Cannonier snapped his five-fight win streak a year ago. It seemed Israel Adesanya (2018) knocked some sense into him as he went back to the drawing board, started fighting smarter and relied more on his strengths. He utilized his wrestling to maul through the likes of Edmen Shahbazyan (2020), Kevin Holland (2021) and Darren Till (2021). Those wins put him on course for a title shot which Cannonier knocked him off of in the second round.
Dricus du Plessis (18-2) continues his march up the division. Not many saw it coming but after his unanimous decision over Brad Tavares and submission over Darren Till last year, he deserves a big fight. Those wins extended his win streak to six which include four impressive UFC outings collecting two bonuses in the process.
DEREK BRUNSON VS DRICUS DU PLESSIS PREDICTION
If Brunson the brawler turns up, he could easily be looking at two knockouts in a row. Du Plessis’ striking technique is better, but it is not exactly crisp. However, he does pack a lot of power and he is not worth exchanging with especially when your chin has a few miles on the clock.
That said, if Brunson lands his overhand left, du Plessis will also be in trouble. However, we expect Brunson to hunt the takedown. He may struggle at first and his chin will be vulnerable when he shoots in but if he is persistent and chains his takedowns together, he will eventually get the South African down and drain the energy bar.
If he has success in the first round, we can even see him getting a late submission. Considering the experience and the odds, Brunson is a no brainer despite the form du Plessis is in.
Prediction: Brunson via Decision - CLICK HERE FOR PARIMATCH'S WELCOME OFFER (BET £5, GET £30 IN BONUSES!)
Value bet: Brunson to win
