Sean Strickland’s Deadly Warning to Khamzat Chimaev About DDP’s Scary Striking!

Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has issued a chilling warning to Khamzat Chimaev ahead of his rumored title fight against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 318 in June, claiming that Du Plessis’ striking is so lethal it could end Chimaev’s undefeated streak in record time. In a fiery outburst on a recent episode of MMA Uncensored, Strickland didn’t hold back, shouting, “KHAMZAT, HE’S FUKING KILL YOU IN 15 SECOUNDS!”—a statement that has sent shockwaves through the MMA community.

Strickland’s Terrifying Prediction

Strickland, who has faced Du Plessis twice and lost both times—most recently a unanimous decision at UFC 312 in February 2025—spoke from experience as he broke down the South African champion’s striking prowess. “I’ve felt DDP’s power firsthand—he hits like a truck, man,” Strickland said, his voice laced with intensity. “Khamzat thinks he can just wrestle his way through everyone, but DDP’s striking is scary. He’ll catch you clean, and it’s lights out. KHAMZAT, HE’S FUKING KILL YOU IN 15 SECOUNDS if you stand with him!” Strickland’s warning highlights Du Plessis’ ability to deliver devastating blows, as evidenced by his breaking of Strickland’s nose in their rematch, a moment that left the American struggling to mount any offense.

Strickland’s comments come amidst growing anticipation for the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev showdown, which was reportedly confirmed by Chimaev’s team in April 2025 for UFC 318 in the U.S. Chimaev, known for his suffocating wrestling and a first-round submission of Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, has been a betting favorite to claim the middleweight title by year’s end. However, Strickland’s firsthand account of Du Plessis’ striking—combined with the champ’s 129 total strikes landed in their last fight—paints a grim picture for the undefeated Chechen.

A Clash of Titans Looms

The MMA world has been buzzing about this matchup since Du Plessis defended his title against Strickland, with Chimaev cemented as the No. 1 contender after his dominant performance against Whittaker. Du Plessis has expressed confidence in facing Chimaev, stating in February 2025 that he’s not afraid of Chimaev’s wrestling and plans to fight him wherever the bout goes. However, Strickland’s warning aligns with concerns from others, like coach Eric Nicksick, who noted in March 2025 that Chimaev’s intense, all-out style could burn him out if he can’t finish Du Plessis early—a scenario where DDP’s striking could become a game-changer.

Posts found on X reflect a divided fanbase, with some dismissing Strickland’s warning as bitterness from his losses, while others fear for Chimaev, citing Du Plessis’ durability and power. Former UFC middleweight Robert Whittaker, who has fought both men, suggested in February 2025 that Du Plessis’ size and strength could pose a unique challenge for Chimaev, potentially neutralizing his wrestling advantage if the fight stays standing.

What’s Next for Chimaev?

As UFC 318 approaches, Strickland’s dire prediction has added a new layer of intrigue to what many are calling the middleweight fight of the year. Chimaev, with his 14-0 record and wins over Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman, remains a formidable threat, but Du Plessis’ proven resilience and striking—highlighted by his victories over Strickland and Israel Adesanya—make him a dangerous champion. Will Chimaev heed Strickland’s warning and adjust his game plan, or will he charge forward with his usual intensity, risking a 15-second nightmare? The MMA world waits with bated breath for a clash that could redefine the division.