UFC 312 marked a significant moment in the career of Dricus Du Plessis, who faced Sean Strickland in a highly anticipated title-fight rematch. After their first encounter at UFC 297 ended in a razor-thin split decision, this time Du Plessis left no room for doubt, securing a decisive victory that solidified his status in the UFC middleweight division. With this win, he showcased exceptional skills and a game plan that effectively countered Strickland’s style.
Du Plessis, fighting out of South Africa, demonstrated an impressive display of striking and grappling that kept Strickland at bay throughout the contest. From the opening bell, it was clear that this was a different fight, as Du Plessis inflicted damage while maintaining control over the pacing. His combinations, particularly the movement between his low kicks and body shots, rattled Strickland and left him visibly shaken.
The Praise of Joe Rogan
Commentary from Joe Rogan, a seasoned analyst and observer of the sport, underscored Du Plessis’s performance. Rogan expressed admiration for Du Plessis’s ability to impose his will inside the octagon, referring to him as a “tough puzzle to figure out.” This highlights the complexities that fighters face when going up against an athlete with Du Plessis’s range and agility at 185 pounds. Rogan’s commentary also emphasized the continuous growth of Du Plessis as a fighter, signaling that he might have not reached his peak yet, which is exciting for fans and opponents alike.
The podcast host’s analysis reflected the sentiments of many who watched the fight. Du Plessis’s ability to adapt and outmaneuver Strickland not only secured a victory but also presented him as a legacy contender in UFC history. The effectiveness of his tactic to keep the fight standing played into his strengths—by not complying with Strickland’s grappling preferences, he maintained an upper hand that visibly frustrated his opponent.
The Challenge Ahead
Following the conclusion of UFC 312, Du Plessis wasted no time in making his ambitions clear: he set his sights on light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. However, he acknowledged the formidable challenge that awaits him in the form of Khamzat Chimaev, a fighter known for his aggressive style and tenacity. Rogan cautioned Du Plessis about Pereira, noting the champion’s knockout power, which underscores the high stakes involved in this potential matchup.
Du Plessis’s journey in the UFC is one that promises to captivate fans as he navigates between challenges and opportunities for championship glory. His latest victory not only adds to his undefeated streak within the promotion but also shapes the narrative of his legacy in mixed martial arts. As he prepares for future bouts, the standard he has set in the Octagon paves the way for thrilling encounters that fans can anticipate with great excitement. The road ahead will be pivotal as Du Plessis battles not only for titles but for his place among the elite fighters in the sport.