The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) returned to Australia with UFC 312, featuring two highly anticipated championship fights at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on February 9, 2025. The main event showcased the rematch between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland for the middleweight title, following Du Plessis's narrow split decision victory over Strickland in their first encounter. Not far behind, the co-main event saw reigning champion Weili Zhang defend her lightweight title against challenger Tatiana Suarez.
The clash between Du Plessis (the defending champion) and Strickland promised to be electrifying, having previously captivated audiences with their competitive wrestling styles and explosive stand-up exchanges. Making his return, Du Plessis came to the octagon prepared to solidify his reign, acknowledging Strickland's persistence, stating before the match, "This fight is all about proving who the best truly is, and I'm ready for anything he brings."
Meanwhile, Weili Zhang, who was coming off of multiple successful title defenses, was set to face Tatiana Suarez. Suarez entered the octagon with impressive credentials, known for her dominant grappling and ground control. The matchup was eagerly awaited by fans and analysts, with many speculating whether Zhang's powerful strikes could best Suarez's ground skills. Striking first, Zhang asserted her confidence, quipping, "I have faced tougher opponents, and I know how to maintain my title. While I respect Suarez, she will have to work harder than ever to take this belt from me."
Beyond the championship battles, the undercard featured notable prospects, including local favorite and UFC newcomer Quillan Salkilld, who faced off against India's Anshul Jubli, who found himself significantly motivated after suffering his first professional loss at UFC 294. Salkilld, who had earned his contract through Dana White's Contender Series, aimed to impress his home crowd as he stepped up to the challenge with conviction. His preparations were relentless. He stated, "I know this is my moment to shine, and I plan to leave everything inside the octagon. My opponent’s past is irrelevant; this is about me."
On the other hand, Anshul Jubli was determined to bounce back from his previous setback, stating, "Obviously it has been quite some time since my last fight, but I’ve not stopped training. I plan to exploit my opponent’s weaknesses and take control. I’m going to dominate this fight." Jubli stood at the edge of proving his capabilities again, driven by pent-up ambition and resilience.
The UFC 312 card wasn't just about the established stars; it was also about the next generation poised to join the ranks of the elite. Observing fighters like Salkilld fighting on home turf provided fans with the unique opportunity to witness potential champions rise. Commentators explored the narrative of local talent stepping onto the international stage, anticipating what Salkilld might bring to the octagon after his impressive streak of wins leading up to this moment.
With the excitement brewing on the horizon, fans across the globe were treated to thrilling fights against the backdrop of Sydney, all caught up with the energy of UFC 312. Anticipation beyond just the title fights lingered; the expectations for outstanding performances from fighters were the hallmark of this packed card, showcasing not only champions but ambitious contenders eager to carve their names in MMA history.
UFC 312 had much riding on it—not just the titles being fought for, but also the ambitions and futures of fighters making their marks on the sport. With each punch thrown and each kick landed, the aspirations would come to fruition for some, and the bitter taste of defeat would linger on the others. Nevertheless, the intensity of the sport remained palpable, setting the stage for memorable encounters and thrilling moments on the battlefield known as the octagon.