Sports
UFC Fans React to Brutal Dricus VS Sean Breakdown
Dricus du Plessis delivered a statement victory over Sean Strickland, defending his UFC middleweight title in dominant fashion. The South African star broke Strickland’s nose in a brutal fourth-round exchange, securing a unanimous decision win and extending his reign at the top of the division.
The fight showcased du Plessis’ evolution as a fighter, as he controlled the contest from start to finish. Judges scored the bout 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46 in favor of the champion, marking his second consecutive win over Strickland. Along the way, he also broke Michael Bisping’s record for the most significant strikes in UFC middleweight history.
A Masterclass from Du Plessis
From the opening bell, du Plessis looked sharp, mixing up his attacks with leg kicks and well-timed strikes. Strickland attempted to implement his signature left jab, which had caused problems in their previous encounter, but this time, du Plessis adjusted his strategy and dictated the pace of the fight.
The defining moment came in the fourth round when du Plessis landed a devastating right hand, breaking Strickland’s nose. Blood streamed from the American’s face as he struggled to mount any meaningful offense in the final two rounds.
Fans React to Du Plessis’ Dominance
UFC fans took to social media to share their thoughts on du Plessis’ performance, with many praising his improvements and control throughout the fight.
MMA analyst Mojahed Fudailat commended the South African’s evolution as a fighter:
Dricus is much improved!
He won all 5 rounds.
less random swinging
better distance management
tricky and creative with all of his attacks
Strickland had no answer.
Congratulations, Dricus. #UFC312 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/nmlnXqvzCq— Mojahed Fudailat (@MojahedFudailat) February 9, 2025
Another fan, @frankie0819, did not hold back in his assessment of Strickland’s performance:
Sean got absolutely destroyed my goodness 5-0 domination and that’s the last title fight he will ever get. Sean is the worse fighter just showed he has one fighting style
and that’s it doesn’t know how to evolve. Dricus dominated Sean. pic.twitter.com/3WEqKaOKOw
— azzurro990 (@frankie0819) February 9, 2025
Meanwhile, @Standemup shared a more measured take, suggesting that Strickland’s lack of activity contributed to his downfall:
The frustrating thing about this fight is that it wasn’t DDP being otherworldly good, it was just Sean not doing enough to win.
Dricus did what a champion should do, Sean simply got shut down for some reason. pic.twitter.com/i23wJK2WQB
— Emiel Sardarean (@Standemup) February 9, 2025
What’s Next for Du Plessis?
With this victory, du Plessis cements himself as one of the top champions in the UFC. His improved technique, composure, and ability to break down opponents make him a formidable force in the middleweight division.
As for Strickland, the loss raises questions about his future title aspirations. After suffering back-to-back defeats to du Plessis, he will likely need to work his way back up the rankings before getting another shot at UFC gold.
For now, South Africa has a reigning UFC champion to celebrate, and du Plessis’ performance has only added to his growing legacy in the sport.
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