Dricus du Plessis threw down for five more rounds with Sean Strickland and once the dust cleared, it was an “And Still” night for the middleweight champion.
The UFC 312 main event saw du Plessis and Strickland battle once more following their UFC 297 clash in January 2024 that ended in a split decision in du Plessis’ favor. This time, it was du Plessis defending his title, and there was far less drama when the scorecards were read out as the champion took a unanimous decision with a pair of 50-45 scores and a 49-46.
Du Plessis pressured Strickland from the moment the bout started and though the challenger’s trademark jab was on display, it didn’t slow du Plessis’ attack. He repeatedly struck at Strickland from odd angles, maintaining a pace that Strickland couldn’t or wouldn’t match. Things only went downhill for Strickland when a du Plessis strike appeared to break his nose in Round 4.
Despite the intensity of their rivalry, the rematch was lacking in dramatic moments, something noted by would-be No. 1 contender Khamzat Chimaev, who dubbed the fight “biggest bullshit.”
See more fighter reactions from social media below.
Well let me tell you something guys Sean sucks
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) February 9, 2025
I can be double champ pretty easily
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) February 9, 2025
Ddp just knows how to win night every body
— Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) February 9, 2025
Dricus Du Plessis is a top 5 P4P in the world. Put some respect on the champion!!! #UFC312
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) February 9, 2025
Dricus just dominant tonight. Too many weapons, pace, pressure and versatility for Strickland to handle. Sean proves his toughness once again tho. #ufc312
— Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) February 9, 2025
