The UFC has confirmed the below story...
The highly anticipated UFC 312, set to take place on February 9, 2024, in Sydney, Australia (February 8 in the U.S.), is rumoured to feature a middleweight title rematch between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland. According to reliable sources, this blockbuster bout is expected to headline the event, marking a significant moment in the UFC calendar.
The last time these two middleweight powerhouses met was at UFC 297 back in January 2024, where Du Plessis claimed a razor close DECISION victory over Strickland, capturing the championship and solidifying his status as one of the division’s elite fighters.
The path to finalising the UFC 312 main event hasn’t been smooth. Initially, there was uncertainty regarding the headliner, with some reports linking Valentina Shevchenko to a potential flyweight title fight on the card.
However, it now appears the UFC is set to revisit the high-stakes rivalry between Du Plessis and Strickland, a decision that has generated immense excitement among fight fans.
This development is particularly intriguing given the controversy surrounding Strickland’s last appearance in Australia. At UFC 293 in September 2023, Strickland shocked the world with a unanimous decision victory over Israel Adesanya to claim the middleweight title. However, his outspoken and polarising behaviour during fight week created backlash, drawing criticism from fans and local media alike.
Despite this, the New South Wales government, which provides financial backing for UFC events in Sydney, seems to have relaxed its stance on Strickland, likely swayed by the global appeal of a Du Plessis vs. Strickland rematch. This showdown promises to deliver fireworks and boost Sydney’s reputation as a hub for international MMA events.
While no official announcement has been made, confirmation is expected soon, making this one of the most anticipated fight announcements of the year. If finalised, UFC 312 will not only determine the future of the middleweight division but also solidify Sydney’s place on the global MMA map.
Stay tuned for updates as the UFC gears up to officially unveil the main event for what promises to be a night to remember. Don’t miss your chance to witness the explosive rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland in the heart of Sydney!
