When it comes to the UFC 328 main event this Saturday, all eyes are on Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland—a grudge match that's already drawing comparisons to the legendary Khabib vs. McGregor showdown. But one man who knows both fighters intimately has a bold prediction that might surprise you.

Dricus Du Plessis, who has shared the octagon with both men, isn't buying the hype that Chimaev will run through Strickland. Despite losing his title to Chimaev in a dominant performance and defeating Strickland twice, Du Plessis sees a clear path for the former champion to pull off the upset.

"The first round is gonna tell us so much about this fight," Du Plessis told Fight Forecast. "I know Khamzat's gonna get him down—I've taken Strickland down so many times—but to keep him there, that's the big question. Strickland's ability to get up is real, and he's a lot stronger than Khamzat."

Du Plessis believes Strickland is being severely overlooked by fans. "If Strickland gets up two or three times in that first round, it's not gonna get any easier for Chimaev. Once Khamzat has to fight Strickland's fight, I just don't think he has a chance."

The tension has been so high during fight week that the UFC has implemented strict measures to prevent any incidents. Strickland will need to survive Chimaev's early onslaught—especially on the ground, where Chimaev is known for his relentless pressure. Over 12 years in the UFC, no one has seriously threatened Strickland with submissions, but 'Borz' might see this as his opportunity to break new ground.

However, if Chimaev can replicate what he did against Robert Whittaker and Du Plessis at UFC 297—holding him down early and draining his gas tank—it could be a long night for Sean. Either way, this is shaping up to be a must-watch clash of styles, and Du Plessis is betting on the underdog to rise.