Fighting fans across the globe tuned in eagerly to UFC 312 on Saturday night, where two title fights punctuated an adrenaline-fueled card at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena. With the middleweight and women’s strawweight championships on the line, the event showcased some of the finest mixed martial arts talent in the world. Headlining the evening was a high-stakes rematch between middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland, which delivered on all fronts.
The main event centered on Dricus Du Plessis defending his middleweight crown against Sean Strickland, a rematch of their bout at UFC 297 where Du Plessis edged Strickland by split decision. This time, Du Plessis left no question of his dominance, putting on a clinic in all facets of mixed martial arts. Over five grueling rounds, Du Plessis outstruck and outmaneuvered Strickland, earning a clear unanimous decision with scores of 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46. Using superior wrestling and striking combinations, the champion neutralized Strickland’s aggressive style, demonstrating why he is considered one of the most complete fighters in the division.
The co-main event featured Zhang Weili successfully defending her women’s strawweight title against rising contender Tatiana Suarez. Suarez, widely recognized for her wrestling pedigree, struggled to impose her grappling against Zhang’s versatility and superior striking. While the fight went the distance, Zhang’s precision and tactical acumen were on full display as she secured a unanimous decision win with two judges scoring it 49-46, and the third concurring. Zhang’s performance further solidified her legacy as one of the best in women’s MMA.
Elsewhere on the main card, fans were treated to a breakout performance from light heavyweight sensation Jamal Hill, who delivered a second-round knockout win over Thiago Santos. Hill’s explosive power and ability to capitalize on openings are rapidly earning him a spot amongst the elite in the division. The victory represents a potential stepping stone toward title contention in the near future.
In the lightweight division, perennial contender Beneil Dariush defeated Arman Tsarukyan in a closely contested three-round bout. The judges awarded the split decision to Dariush, who used his experience and strategic ground game to edge out the younger contender. With the win, Dariush reignites his hopes for a potential title shot in the lightweight division, which remains one of the deepest pools of talent in the UFC.
The opening bout of the main card showcased the return of Australian favorite Tai Tuivasa, who delighted the home crowd with a first-round knockout win over Moldovan heavyweight Sergei Spivak. Known for his infectious personality and devastating striking power, Tuivasa sent the arena into frenzy with a well-timed uppercut that ended Spivak’s night early. Tuivasa’s victory not only entertained the fans but also reminded the heavyweight division of his knockout prowess.
The electrifying energy of UFC 312 extended to the preliminary card, which featured several finishes, ensuring fans received their money’s worth. Sydney’s audience was treated to a masterclass of athleticism, skill, and heart across every bout, making it a memorable evening in the annals of MMA history.
The success of UFC 312 underscores the global growth of the sport and the UFC’s ability to deliver blockbuster events. With marquee matchups, rising stars, and thrilling finishes, the event highlighted the organization’s commitment to showcasing premier athletic competition. Both Dricus Du Plessis and Zhang Weili emphasized their dominance, setting the stage for continued intrigue in their respective divisions.
As the dust settles on this event, fans and analysts alike will be speculating on the futures of all the competitors. For Du Plessis, calls are already mounting for potential superfight opportunities, while Strickland may look to regroup and reestablish himself within the middleweight ranks. Similarly, Zhang continues to prove she is one of the pound-for-pound greats, making her a formidable opponent for any challenger in her domain.
Overall, UFC 312 delivered in spades, living up to its billing as one of the most anticipated events of the early MMA calendar. As 2025 moves forward, the world of mixed martial arts promises plenty more spectacular nights, but few will rival the drama and excitement witnessed in Sydney on this memorable February night.
