UFC 312: Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2 - Full Event Preview for February 8

UFC 312 is set to take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia. This event features two highly anticipated title fights along with an action-packed card that promises to shake up the MMA world.


Main Event: Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2

In the main event, middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis will defend his title in a rematch against former champion Sean Strickland. The two previously fought at UFC 297, where du Plessis secured the belt via a split decision. Since then, both fighters have exchanged heated words, building anticipation for this rematch. (talksport.com)

Fighter Analysis:

  • Dricus du Plessis: Known for his unpredictable and aggressive fighting style, du Plessis has proven to be a resilient champion. His adaptability and knockout power are key factors in this rematch.

  • Sean Strickland: A skilled striker with excellent distance control, Strickland aims to reclaim his title and prove that his previous loss was a fluke. His strong defense and precise striking will be essential in countering du Plessis.

Fight Expectations:

Their first fight was closely contested, and this rematch is expected to be even more intense. Du Plessis will likely push the pace early, while Strickland will try to dictate the fight with his technical striking. Fans can anticipate a strategic battle with high-stakes moments.


Co-Main Event: Zhang Weili vs. Tatiana Suarez

In the co-main event, women’s strawweight champion Zhang Weili will defend her belt against undefeated challenger Tatiana Suarez. Weili has dominated her recent title defenses, while Suarez returns to the octagon after a long layoff due to injuries. This matchup presents an exciting contrast between Weili’s powerful striking and Suarez’s elite wrestling. (mmamania.com)

Fighter Analysis:

  • Zhang Weili: A powerful and explosive striker with excellent cardio, Weili has continuously improved her all-around game. Her ability to pressure opponents and land quick combinations makes her a formidable champion.

  • Tatiana Suarez: With a strong wrestling background, Suarez is known for her dominant grappling and control on the ground. Despite past injuries, she remains one of the biggest threats in the division.

Fight Expectations:

This is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup. If the fight stays standing, Weili holds the advantage, but if Suarez can secure takedowns, she could control the champion and work toward a submission or decision victory. The key will be who implements their game plan first.


Other Main Card Fights

  • Heavyweight: Justin Tafa vs. Tallison Teixeira

  • Light Heavyweight: Jimmy Crute vs. Rodolfo Bellato

  • Welterweight: Jake Matthews vs. Francisco Prado

The preliminary card will also feature the debut of several promising prospects, including Aleksandre Topuria, Colby Thicknesse, Quillan Salkilld, and Jonathan Micallef. (mmamania.com)


Broadcast Information

Fans worldwide can watch the event live through UFC Fight Pass. The preliminary card starts at 7:00 PM GMT, followed by the main card at 10:00 PM GMT. Check local listings for more details.


Overall Expectations

UFC 312 promises to be an unforgettable night of MMA, featuring two title fights and several high-profile matchups that could have major implications for their respective divisions. Fans can expect elite performances and possible upsets throughout the night.