Following the challenger up to the stage, the reigning UFC champion continued his psychological battle with his opponent, refusing to not only stand on the scale, but to get close to the South African.
“I didn’t want to come up so he didn’t try to kiss me,” the American explained to UFC chief, Dana White, his behavior after the fighters still managed to come face-to-face.
After the battle of glances, Du Plessis promised to fulfill Strickland’s wish.
“I don’t have any predictions,” the challenger declared. “As they say, be careful what you wish for. He asked for a fight to the death and your wish will be granted, my friend.”
“I’m just surprised Canada even let me come to the microphone,” the champ said. “But tomorrow we’re going to have a war for you guys. We’re gonna have a freakin’ war! Go Canada!”
The UFC 297 event kicks off on January 21 at 2:30 Moscow time, with the event’s main event bouts beginning at 6:00 MSC.