Overview
- Dricus Du Plessis will defend his middleweight title against Sean Strickland in a rematch at UFC 312 on February 8, 2025, in Sydney, Australia.
- The first fight between Du Plessis and Strickland at UFC 297 ended in a controversial split decision, fueling anticipation for the rematch.
- Strickland earned his way back into title contention with a decisive win over Paulo Costa, while Du Plessis recently defended his title against Israel Adesanya via submission.
- In the co-main event, Zhang Weili will defend her strawweight title against undefeated challenger Tatiana Suarez, who has overcome significant health setbacks to reach this opportunity.
- Khamzat Chimaev, who recently defeated Robert Whittaker, was a favored contender for a title shot by many fans but will have to wait for his opportunity, as confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White.