Two title fights set the stage for an explosive night in Sydney.

On February 9, 2025, the UFC returns to Sydney, Australia, for UFC 312, featuring two highly anticipated title fights. In the main event, middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis defends his belt against former champion Sean Strickland. The co-main event will see strawweight champion Zhang Weili take on undefeated contender Tatiana Suarez.

This event marks a crucial moment in the middleweight division, as Strickland looks to reclaim the belt he lost to Du Plessis in their first encounter at UFC 297. Meanwhile, the strawweight division will witness a clash of styles between Weili’s striking and Suarez’s elite wrestling.

A Heated Rivalry: Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2

The first fight between Dricus du Plessis (21-2) and Sean Strickland (28-6) took place at UFC 297 on January 20, 2024. After a grueling five-round war, Du Plessis secured a split decision victory, capturing the UFC Middleweight Championship. However, the result sparked debate, with some analysts believing Strickland had done enough to win.

UFC President Dana White defended the judges’ call, but Strickland has openly voiced his disagreement. Now, he is determined to leave no doubt in the rematch.

“I won’t leave it to the judges. I will finish this fight.” – Sean Strickland, UFC Countdown.

Du Plessis, known for his pressure, power, and grappling, has vowed to prove that his victory was no fluke. He believes he is the superior fighter and aims to end the fight before the final bell.

“I’m better, stronger, and more dangerous this time. I’ll finish him.” – Dricus du Plessis, UFC Countdown.

Strawweight Showdown: Zhang Weili vs. Tatiana Suarez

In the co-main event, Zhang Weili (24-3) will put her strawweight title on the line against Tatiana Suarez (11-0). Zhang, the first Chinese UFC champion, has dominated her division, with victories over top contenders like Carla Esparza, Rose Namajunas, and Yan Xiaonan.

Tatiana Suarez, an undefeated wrestling specialist, has overcome injuries to earn her first title shot. With wins over former champions Esparza and Jessica Andrade, she has proven herself as a dominant force. Many believe her wrestling could be the key to dethroning Zhang.

“This is my moment. I will prove I am the best strawweight in the world.” – Tatiana Suarez, UFC Countdown.

UFC 312 Fight Card – Main Bouts

Middleweight Title Fight: Dricus du Plessis (c) vs. Sean Strickland
• Strawweight Title Fight: Zhang Weili (c) vs. Tatiana Suarez
• Heavyweight: Justin Tafa vs. Tallison Teixeira
• Light Heavyweight: Jimmy Crute vs. Rodolfo Bellato
• Welterweight: Jake Matthews vs. Francisco Prado

Where and When to Watch UFC 312

UFC 312 takes place at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia. The main card starts at 10:00 PM local time (12:00 PM CET, 6:00 AM ET). The event will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass.

With two major title fights and a heated rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland, UFC 312 is shaping up to be one of the biggest MMA events of the year.

Source: MMAnytt.se

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