Sean Strickland can exploit weaknesses in Jared Cannonier by making him work, says Dan Hardy

Sean Strickland will take on Jared Cannonier in the final UFC fight of 2022 this weekend at the promotion's Apex facility in Las Vegas. One of MMA's best analysts, Dan Hardy, recently broke down the middleweight headliner.

The main event is highly anticipated due to the fighting styles of both men, with fans expecting an exciting stand-up battle. Cannonier possesses the power advantage, while Strickland's incredible cardio and volume could prove to be pivotal as well.

Former UFC title challenger Dan Hardy recently broke down the middleweight clash. The Brit pointed out that the relentless pressure of Strickland could make a difference if the fight enters the championship rounds. During episode #242 of The War Room, Hardy said:

"Strickland is going to be able to clinch him up against the fence, but ultimately Cannonier is going to get back to his feet. But each time he does it he will spend a little bit more energy which he won't have in the 4th and 5th round."

Speaking on the two fighters' grappling, the former UFC commentator added:

"I don't think he's got the technical ability to compete with Strickland there. I feel like Sean Strickland will have the advantage in the grappling, but he loses out on the power side. It will be a worthwhile investment for Strickland to work however he can."

Watch Dan Hardy's breakdown below:

Sean Strickland was riding a six-fight winning streak until his first round KO loss to Alex Pereira at UFC 276. His opponent, Jared Cannonier, featured in the main event of the same pay-per-view card and was defeated by then-champion Israel Adesanya via unanimous decision.

Both men will be looking to bounce back from their respective defeats and close out 2022 in style, as the UFC closes the door on another incredible year.

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Sean Strickland says he has no specific gameplan against Jared Cannonier

Sean Strickland will take on Jared Cannonier in the main event of UFC Fight Night 216 this weekend. Both men have recorded 10 KO victories in their careers, and many expect the fight to be contested on the feet.

At a recent media scrum, Strickland discussed the gameplan he will employ against Cannonier. He admitted that he doesn't have a defined strategy and will see where the fight goes and adjust accordingly:

"You just got to be fluid. You just got to see where the action takes you. What position you're going to be in. Maybe he doesn't like being on top. Maybe he doesn't like being on bottom. I just got to figure it out as I go."