On February 9, 2024, mixed martial arts fans will witness UFC 312 at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, featuring the highly anticipated rematch between middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland. This event promises to deliver electrifying fights, with Du Plessis defending his title for the second time after previously dethroning Strickland via split decision at UFC 297.
Since winning the championship, Du Plessis has proven his mettle by submitting former champion Israel Adesanya last August, solidifying his position as the top contender. Meanwhile, Strickland is eager to reclaim the belt after rebounding from his previous loss with a decisive split decision victory over Paulo Costa last June. "For me, the split decision was the biggest shock to me," Du Plessis reflected, expressing his determination to silence dissenters.
The stakes are high for both fighters. Du Plessis, boasting a record of 22 wins and 2 losses, has showcased his grappling and tenacity inside the Octagon, aiming to maintain his undefeated streak throughout his UFC career. Strickland, with 29 wins and 6 losses, has long been recognized for his technical prowess and relentless pace, often overwhelming opponents with his strikes. "It is gonna be f------ war. He wants it. I want it. I’m confident, he’s confident. But I think I’m gonna piece him apart," Strickland asserted, underscoring the intensity leading up to their showdown.
The co-main event will feature Zhang Weili, the reigning two-time champion, defending her UFC Women’s Strawweight title against unbeaten contender Tatiana Suarez. Zhang, who has racked up 25 wins and 3 losses, is set to make her third title defense, stepping back inside the Octagon after successfully defending her belt multiple times and overcoming various challenges. Suarez, at 10-0, returns to the spotlight after 18 months away, seeking to capture her first championship title.
UFC 312 marks the organization’s seventh event at the Qudos Bank Arena, which has become synonymous with high-stakes bouts and thrilling showdowns. The venue is no stranger to championship fights, having hosted various pivotal contests since its inception before the 2000 Summer Olympics. With its capacity of around 20,000, fans are sure to experience the adrenaline of live MMA, supporting their favorite fighters as they clash.
Following the thrilling championship bouts, additional fights on the main card will feature notable names such as heavyweight Justin Tafa against Tallison Teixeira, light heavyweight Jimmy Crute against Rodolfo Bellato, and welterweight Jake Matthews facing Francisco Prado. These encounters promise to feature exciting action, showcasing both rising talents and established fighters.
For viewers following the action at home, UFC 312 will air live on ESPN+ pay-per-view, with the main card starting at 10:00 p.m. ET, following preliminary bouts at 8:00 p.m. ET. Fans tuning in Australia can catch the event live on Kayo Sports starting at 2:00 p.m. AEDT. This flexibility allows fans across different time zones to participate in what promises to be one of the most exhilarating nights of the year.
Overall, UFC 312 encapsulates the excitement of the sport, with Du Plessis and Strickland delivering personal stakes and passion. The fighters not only compete for the championship belts but also for the hearts and acclaim of fans worldwide. This rematch—a clash of styles, skills, and willpower—highlights the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts.
Fans are advised to tune in, as UFC 312: Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2 is set to leave its mark on the MMA calendar, serving not only as a championship event but also as another chapter in the storied rivalry between two of the division's best.