Dricus du Plessis UFC 312 Fight Update — South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis, 31, has once again proven his dominance in the octagon, securing a second victory over Sean Strickland to retain his UFC middleweight title.
This win adds to his impressive list of triumphs, which includes victories over former champions Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, and Strickland, as well as former contenders Derek Brunson, Darren Till, and Brad Tavares.
However, du Plessis’ latest victory has been met with mixed reactions in South Africa, following controversy over his choice of attire at a recent media event. The fighter wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Trump prefers champions,” sparking widespread outrage on social media. The backlash was amplified by ongoing tensions between South Africa and the US, particularly regarding the Expropriation Act.
When questioned about the shirt, du Plessis expressed his admiration for Trump, stating, “I think he’s an amazing, amazing president, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting him.”
The controversy drew sharp criticism from South Africans, among them digital creator Brent Janse van Vuuren, who called the move “incredibly divisive.” In a post on X, van Vuuren wrote, “Dricus du Plessis bending the knee to Trump and Elon is embarrassing. For an athlete who built his brand on national pride and representing South Africa, this move is incredibly divisive.”
On the other hand, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, came to du Plessis’ defense. In a post on X, McKenzie praised the champion, writing, “A Champion representing South Africa on the international stage entering the ring wearing the SA flag, I must now not support him because he did or said something I or you disagree with? You guys have gone mad. Well done @dricusduplessis.”
Despite the mixed reactions, du Plessis’ victory cements his status as one of South Africa’s most accomplished athletes. His ability to overcome elite competition continues to inspire fans worldwide, even as his personal choices spark debate.
The highly anticipated middleweight title rematch between South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis (22-2) and Sean Strickland (29-6) headlines UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia. Du Plessis, the reigning champion, is defending his 185-pound title after securing a split-decision victory over Strickland at UFC 297.
Since claiming the belt, du Plessis successfully defended it against Israel Adesanya, while Strickland bounced back with a split-decision win over Paulo Costa at UFC 302 to remain in title contention.
In the co-main event, the women’s strawweight championship is on the line as China’s Zhang Weili (25-3) faces the undefeated Tatiana Suarez (11-0) in a clash of titans.
Follow along with The Sporting News for live updates, results, and highlights from the action-packed night at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena.
UFC 312 Live Results and Highlights
Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2
Round 3:
Du Plessis gains the upper hand in a close-range exchange, showcasing his unorthodox striking. Strickland appears hesitant, sticking to his cautious approach. Despite visible damage to Strickland’s front leg, he remains composed. Du Plessis lands a spinning backfist and a spinning elbow, but Strickland’s durability keeps him in the fight. Late in the round, du Plessis secures a takedown, leaving Strickland in need of a momentum shift.
SN Unofficial Scorecard: 30-27 du Plessis
Round 2:
The round opens with a flurry of kicks, with du Plessis displaying greater volume and variety. Strickland counters with sharp punches, but du Plessis continues to target the legs. A well-timed right hand from Strickland draws a reaction, but du Plessis responds with a left over the top and a switch kick to the head. Another round edges in favor of the champion based on activity and precision.
SN Unofficial Scorecard: 20-18 du Plessis
Round 1:
A cautious start from both fighters, with Strickland relying on his jab and du Plessis testing the range with kicks, including a spinning attempt that misses. Du Plessis finds success with a switch kick to the head, but neither fighter commits too heavily in the opening round.
SN Unofficial Scorecard: 10-9 du Plessis
4:30 PM AEDT: The main event is underway! Tune in for the middleweight championship showdown.
Stay with us for more updates and analysis as UFC 312 unfolds – NOWinSA: South African Brand News and Inspiring Stories!
