UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis will defend his title against Sean Strickland in a highly anticipated rematch on February 8, 2025, at UFC 312 in Australia following his stunning victory over Israel Adesanya, Cape {town] Etc reports.
Sean Strickland lost the title to Dricus du Plessis by split decision earlier this year in Toronto.
No. 6-ranked pound-for-pound fighter du Plessis (22-2, fighting out of Pretoria, South Africa) looks to remain undefeated since joining the promotion with his ninth straight victory.
In just four years, he’s beaten the three former champions and has six finishes, proving to be one of the most exciting athletes on the roster.
Du Plessis’ standout victory came in August, when he made two-time champion Israel Adesanya submit in front of a packed crowd in Perth.
Now, he plans to show that his first win over Strickland wasn’t a one-time thing.
Strickland (29-6, Las Vegas) seeks revenge in his third title fight after defeating Paulo Costa by split decision at UFC 302.
With their first bout being closely contested and Strickland’s momentum, this rematch promises fireworks.
In October, Du Plessis voiced his preference to face undefeated Khamzat Chimaev over a rematch with Strickland, following Chimaev’s dominant win over Robert Whittaker.
‘The conversations [have been] more about me fighting Strickland,’ Du Plessis told ESPN, per Brett Okamoto.
‘But there was a very big reason no contracts have been signed, and I’m saying this as an opinion.
‘I agreed that I’ll fight Strickland, perfect — and that’s the fight the fans want.
‘But if you go on what the fans want right now, it’s definitely not the Strickland fight,’ he said.
Despite his comments, the title rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland is officially set.
Details:
- When: 8 February 2025
- Place: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Olympic Park Australia
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Watch: Israel taps out as Dricus retains UFC middleweight title
Picture: Paul Kane / Gallo
