The main event features a middleweight championship rematch between reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis and former champ Sean Strickland. After a razor-close first encounter in early 2024, these two men will meet again at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, on February 8, 2025. If their first fight was any indication, fans are in for a thrilling night of high-octane action.
A Rematch Months in the Making
At UFC 297, Strickland walked into the Octagon as the reigning middleweight champion, ready to defend his belt against Du Plessis. What followed was one of the tightest, most contested bouts in recent memory. The fight was so close that it was nearly impossible to pick a winner, with both men having their moments. Du Plessis, however, managed to edge out Strickland, winning the fight by split decision and claiming the middleweight belt.
Since that night, Du Plessis has been on a mission to cement his legacy. In his first title defense, he submitted former champ Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 in August 2024, proving his worth at the top of the middleweight division. With an unbeaten streak stretching back to 2020, the South African powerhouse is aiming for an 11th consecutive victory.
For Strickland, however, the loss has never sat well. The fiery Californian has openly protested the decision ever since, calling for a rematch to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his. Strickland bounced back in June 2024 with a dominant win over Paulo Costa, and now he gets his wish to challenge for the title again. He’s been waiting for this moment, and now, just over a year since their first meeting, it’s finally time for the two middleweights to settle the score.
Strickland’s Tactical Change: The Pereira Factor
Strickland, known for his relentless forward pressure and high-volume striking, has often been criticized for his lack of technical finesse. But what he lacks in technique, he makes up for with his toughness and pressure. That said, Strickland’s loss to Du Plessis highlighted some weaknesses – particularly his takedown defense and his inability to stop Du Plessis from asserting his power.
To correct those issues, Strickland has brought in former middleweight champ Alex Pereira, a fighter who knows how to handle himself against powerful strikers. Pereira, who once knocked out Strickland in their 2022 bout, will be in Strickland's corner for UFC 312. Although they had their own history, the two men have since trained together, and Pereira's experience and knowledge will be a crucial asset for Strickland as he looks to regain his title.
Having Pereira in his corner could give Strickland the edge, especially in dealing with the wrestling-heavy game of Du Plessis. The pressure will be on for Strickland to refine his strategy and come out with a more well-rounded approach to the fight.
Du Plessis: The "Bull in a China Shop"
On the other hand, Du Plessis, despite being regarded as one of the most unorthodox fighters in the UFC, has a knack for getting the job done. His critics often point out his wild, power-based approach and unpolished technique, but there's no arguing with his results. The South African fighter has been a wrecking ball in the Octagon, racking up win after win with his brute force, relentless pressure, and solid wrestling game.
Du Plessis’ ability to land takedowns will be critical against Strickland. In their first encounter, Du Plessis was successful on six of his eleven takedown attempts, keeping Strickland on the back foot and unable to truly impose his game. Though Strickland has been known for his jab and superior striking, the question is whether Du Plessis will be able to land his power shots and control the pace of the fight again.
It’s worth noting that despite the criticism of his technique, Du Plessis has become a nightmare for most opponents. He’s fought through some of the best in the division, including victories over Robert Whittaker, Israel Adesanya, and of course, Strickland. His sheer power and toughness have allowed him to dominate, even against more technically refined opponents.
What’s at Stake?
The stakes could not be higher for both men. For Strickland, this is his chance to reclaim the title he believes was taken from him in a controversial fashion. For Du Plessis, it’s an opportunity to further prove that his title win wasn’t a fluke and that he belongs at the top of the middleweight division.
While Strickland’s confidence is no secret, it’s Du Plessis' resilience and fighting IQ that could make the difference in this rematch. Will Strickland’s additions to his corner and adjustments to his game be enough to turn the tide, or will Du Plessis' gritty style and power continue to dominate the middleweight division?
Conclusion
The UFC has always had a way of delivering high-stakes, exciting matchups in Australia, and this one promises to be no exception. With both fighters hungry for victory, UFC 312 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events of the year. Whether you’re rooting for Strickland to avenge his loss or hoping to see Du Plessis continue his dominance, this rematch is bound to deliver fireworks.
Mark your calendars for February 8 – the middleweight title is on the line, and these two warriors are ready to leave it all in the Octagon.