There has been a significant exchange in the lead-up to the highly anticipated rematch at UFC 312, where Dricus du Plessis will defend his middleweight championship against former titleholder Sean Strickland. Scheduled for February 9 in Sydney, Australia, this event is set to attract considerable attention from MMA fans around the globe.
You may recall that the two fighters first faced off at UFC 297 in January 2024, where du Plessis claimed victory by a narrow split decision. Since then, Strickland has been vocal about his desire for a rematch, pushing for the opportunity to reclaim the title he lost.
As the fight date approaches, Strickland decided to take an unconventional route by proposing a ‘pact’ to du Plessis, aiming to keep their upcoming bout focused on striking rather than grappling or wrestling. In a bold video posted on social media, Strickland advised du Plessis, “Listen Dutchman, I’m going to need you to be a fking man. I’m gonna need you to stand up, not go to your knees, and we’re gonna need to strike like men.”
The former champion went on to dismiss the notion of tactical ground exchanges, implying that he prefers a stand-up fight to settle their differences. His request is quite a statement in the MMA world, as it highlights the contrasting styles of both fighters, with du Plessis known for his grappling skills.
In response, du Plessis delivered a succinct rebuttal, stating, “There are no pacts between Lions and men.” This retort reflects not only his confidence in his own abilities but also underscores the ongoing rivalry that adds an intriguing layer to their rematch. It seems you can expect a fiercely competitive environment when they step into the octagon, with neither fighter willing to back down.
As UFC 312 draws closer, both fighters are undoubtedly prepared to showcase their skills. You might find it compelling to consider the factors at play in this matchup—Strickland’s striking versus du Plessis’s grappling acumen. The outcome will determine who walks away with the middleweight title, and it’s sure to be an electrifying encounter.
In short, the tension between Strickland and du Plessis is palpable. Strickland’s call for a striking-only agreement may serve as a psychological tactic, but du Plessis’s fierce response indicates he will not take any challenge lightly. As you count down to UFC 312, keep an eye on this storyline, as it promises to deliver excitement for fans of the sport.