UFC 297: Sean Strickland vs Dricus Du Plessis Highlights

Summary

The UFC middleweight title fight between champion Sean Strickland and challenger DDP draus dupes at UFC 297 is recapped. It was a close fight that went the distance, with dupes scoring takedowns and landing heavy kicks while Strickland utilized his jab and defense. Ultimately dupes won a split decision in a major upset to become the new middleweight champion. He called out Israel Adesanya afterwards as a potential next opponent.

Takeaways

• 😊 UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland took on #2 contender DDP draus dupes in Toronto
• 🥊 Strickland possessed great boxing skills and toughness, while dupes had power, size and a wild style
• 🤼‍♂️ It was a very close fight with both fighters landing significant strikes
• 👊 dupes landed more strikes overall and secured several takedowns of Strickland
• ⚖️ dupes won a close split decision to become the new UFC middleweight champion
• 👏 dupes has significantly improved every time he fights and brings an entertaining style
• 🏆 dupes is now 21-2 overall and riding a 9 fight win streak
• 💪 He has 10 submission wins and 9 KO/TKO wins with 8 first round finishes
• 🥇 dupes is the first ever South African born UFC champion
• 👀 dupes called out Israel Adesanya for his next fight

Q & A

When and where did the Strickland vs. Dupes fight take place?

The fight took place on Saturday, January 20th, 2024 at Scotia Bank Arena in Toronto.

What were the betting odds for the fight?

The betting odds had Strickland as a -110 favorite and Dupes as a +1110 underdog.

How did Dupes win the fight?

Dupes won by split decision after five close rounds. He landed more strikes overall and secured several takedowns that likely earned him extra points on the judges' scorecards.

What was Dupes' record coming into the fight?

Coming into the fight, Dupes had a professional MMA record of 20 wins and 2 losses.

What title was at stake in the Strickland vs. Dupes fight?

The UFC Middleweight Championship was at stake. Strickland entered as champion after defending the belt multiple times.

What made the fight so anticipated?

It was an anticipated matchup between the champion Strickland and the dangerous top contender Dupes, who brought explosive athleticism and power along with an aggressive style.

What were Strickland's main strengths entering the fight?

Strickland's main strengths were his technical boxing, defense, cardio conditioning and incredible toughness.

How did Strickland try to approach the fight against Dupes?

Strickland looked to use his jab and walk Dupes down, keeping pressure on him rather than letting Dupes dictate the exchanges.

What did Dupes call for after winning the title?

After winning, Dupes called out top middleweight contender Israel Adesanya for a future matchup.

How did Jake Hatton summarize his thoughts on the fight?

Hatton was very emotional and impressed with Dupes' performance. He felt the fight was very close but well-earned, calling Dupes' rise incredible after years of hard work finally paid off.