UFC 312: Complete Guide to Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2 and Championship Double-Header

 UFC 312: Complete Guide to Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2 and Championship Double-Header

Mixed martial arts history has shown that immediate championship rematches often produce the most compelling narratives in the sport. As UFC 312 descends upon Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena, two title fights promise to add another thrilling chapter to this tradition.

The event marks a pivotal moment in the UFC's 2025 calendar, headlined by Dricus du Plessis's first middleweight title defense against the man he dethroned, Sean Strickland. Alongside this explosive main event, Zhang Weili puts her strawweight crown on the line against the undefeated phenom Tatiana Suarez.

UFC 312: Two Title Fights Set to Light Up Sydney

A Night of Championship Battles

UFC 312 takes center stage at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia on February 8, 2025. The event features two championship bouts, with the main card starting at 10 PM ET. Fight fans can catch the prelims at 8 PM ET and early prelims beginning at 6:30 PM ET, with the main card available exclusively on ESPN+ pay-per-view.

Middleweight Championship Rematch Headlines

The main event spotlights a highly anticipated rematch between middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and former titleholder Sean Strickland. Du Plessis (22-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) comes into the fight following his split decision victory over Strickland at UFC 297, where he claimed the belt. The South African champion has shown impressive form, including a notable submission win over Israel Adesanya.

Strickland (29-6 MMA, 16-6 UFC) earned his way back to title contention with a hard-fought split decision victory over Paulo Costa. The American fighter brings his trademark pressure style and solid striking fundamentals as he attempts to reclaim the championship he lost in their first encounter.

Women's Strawweight Title Fight

The co-main event presents an intriguing matchup as Zhang Weili (25-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) defends her women's strawweight title against undefeated challenger Tatiana Suarez (11-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC). Zhang seeks her third successful defense in her second reign as champion, while Suarez finally gets her shot at the title after overcoming various injuries throughout her career.

Stacked Undercard Features Top Talent

The main card includes several compelling matchups. In heavyweight action, Justin Tafa faces Tallison Teixeira, while the light heavyweight division sees Rodolfo Bellato square off against Jimmy Crute. Jake Matthews meets Francisco Prado in a welterweight contest, and Gabriel Santos takes on Jack Jenkins in featherweight competition.

Fight Card Details and Rankings

The complete fight card features ranked competitors across multiple weight classes. The betting odds show du Plessis as the favorite at -210, with Strickland coming in as the underdog at +175. In the co-main event, oddsmakers have Tatiana Suarez slightly favored at -120 over Zhang Weili at +100.

Broadcast Information

Viewers can watch the main card through ESPN+ pay-per-view, while the prelims air on ESPN2 and ESPN+. Early prelims stream exclusively on UFC Fight Pass. The event marks another significant international showcase for the UFC, bringing high-stakes mixed martial arts action to Australian fans.

The outcomes of UFC 312's championship bouts will shape the future of both divisions, with potential challengers waiting in the wings. The event brings together established champions and hungry contenders, promising an action-packed night of mixed martial arts competition in Sydney.

The Stage is Set for Sydney Showdowns

UFC 312 represents more than just another night of championship fights; it embodies the evolution of mixed martial arts on the global stage. With du Plessis looking to cement his legacy and Strickland seeking redemption, alongside Zhang's defense against the rising force of Suarez, the event promises to reshape the landscape of two divisions.

The Australian fans at Qudos Bank Arena will witness not just fights, but potential shifting points in UFC history. As the athletes make their final preparations, the stage is set for an unforgettable night of world-class competition that could alter the trajectory of multiple weight classes. 

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