Du Plessis Vs Strickland 2: UFC 312 Scores

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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Du Plessis vs Strickland 2: UFC 312 Scores and Fight Breakdown

The highly anticipated rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland at UFC 312 delivered a thrilling spectacle, leaving fans buzzing about the outcome. This article breaks down the fight, examines the judges' scorecards, and analyzes what made this a memorable contest.

The Fight: A Clash of Styles

The first fight between these two middleweights was a controversial split decision, setting the stage for a rematch filled with anticipation. This time, both fighters came prepared to leave no doubt. Du Plessis, known for his powerful striking and relentless pressure, adopted a more measured approach early on, showcasing improved defensive awareness. Strickland, the unorthodox counter-striker, utilized his signature movement and unpredictable attacks, seeking to exploit any openings.

The fight was a tactical battle of wits. Both fighters landed significant strikes, showcasing their technical skills and adaptability within the octagon. The middle rounds saw Du Plessis attempting to close the distance and land powerful combinations, while Strickland relied on his footwork and counters, keeping Du Plessis at bay with effective jabs and kicks. The final round saw a noticeable surge of aggression from both fighters, each desperately seeking a knockout or a decisive advantage before the final bell.

Key Moments and Turning Points:

• Round 1: A feeling-out process, with both fighters testing the waters and gauging their opponent's range and strategy.
• Round 2: Strickland utilized his movement to avoid damage and land clean counters, potentially winning the round on points.
• Round 3: Du Plessis landed some significant strikes, but Strickland's durability and counter-punching kept the fight close.
• Round 4 & 5: A furious exchange of strikes in the championship rounds, leaving the judges with a tough decision.

The Scorecards: Controversy or Consensus?

The official scorecards following the Du Plessis vs Strickland 2 fight at UFC 312 sparked immediate debate among fans and analysts. While the exact scores varied slightly depending on the judge, the overall consensus was a close fight, with no clear victor apparent to the casual observer.

Some judges favored Du Plessis' consistent pressure and powerful strikes, while others saw Strickland's effective counter-strikes and superior movement as the winning factor. This disparity highlights the subjective nature of judging in MMA, making these close fights so unpredictable and exciting.

Examining the Judging Criteria:

• Significant Strikes Landed: Both fighters connected with significant strikes, making this metric difficult to weigh definitively.
• Control of the Octagon: Du Plessis likely controlled the octagon more through his aggressive pressure, but Strickland's effective movement arguably negated this advantage.
• Effective Grappling: Neither fighter dominated in the grappling department, leaving striking as the main determinant.

The lack of a clear-cut winner underscores the competitiveness of the matchup and why a rematch was so compelling.

The Aftermath: What's Next?

The result of Du Plessis vs Strickland 2 at UFC 312 will undoubtedly shape the future of both fighters' careers within the UFC middleweight division. Regardless of the judges' decision, both fighters showcased their skills and provided a high-quality performance.

The post-fight interviews offered insights into the fighters' perspectives and potential future matchups. This fight generated significant buzz, proving that both Du Plessis and Strickland are top contenders in a stacked division. The anticipation for their next fights is considerable, and fans eagerly await to see what challenges lie ahead for these talented middleweights.

In conclusion, the Du Plessis vs Strickland 2 rematch at UFC 312 was a captivating display of skill and strategy. The close scoring reflects the closeness of the fight and highlights the importance of continued improvements in the judging criteria for mixed martial arts. The excitement generated leaves fans clamoring for future bouts with these remarkable athletes.