UFC champion Dricus du Plessis gears up for a thrilling rematch against Sean Strickland, defending his middleweight title in Australia at UFC 312

South African UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis will defend his title against Sean Strickland in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 312. The bout is set to take place on February 9, 2025, at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena in Australia.

Du Plessis first defeated Strickland at UFC 297 in Toronto earlier this year via a split decision to claim the title. Since then, he cemented his dominance in the division by successfully defending his title against two-time champion Israel Adesanya. At UFC 305 in Perth, du Plessis submitted Adesanya in the fourth round, solidifying his status as a formidable champion.

Du Plessis initially expressed interest in facing Khamzat Chimaev following the latter’s stunning first-round win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308. “I’ve beaten Strickland before, and I know I’ll beat him again,” du Plessis said. “The Khamzat fight excites me, and I think it’s what the fans want.”

Despite his preferences, UFC President Dana White honored the rematch clause for Strickland, setting up the February showdown.

The event will also feature a Strawweight title fight, with Zhang Weili defending her championship against the undefeated Tatiana Suarez.

Both matches promise to deliver electrifying action, with du Plessis aiming to maintain his dominance and Zhang facing her toughest challenger yet. Fans are eagerly counting down to UFC 312, which is shaping up to be one of the most exciting cards of the year.

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