Dricus Du Plessis’ precise and devastating right hand broke Sean Strickland’s nose

UFC 312 delivered one of the most anticipated middleweight rematches, with Dricus Du Plessis successfully defending his championship title against Sean Strickland in a high-stakes battle. The fight, held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, showcased Du Plessis’ superior power and precision as he landed a brutal right hand that shattered Strickland’s nose and shifted the momentum of the bout.

This victory not only solidified Du Plessis as the reigning middleweight king but also fueled discussions about what’s next for the division. With rising challengers like Khamzat Chimaev, Nassourdine Imavov, and Caio Borralho, the middleweight landscape is evolving rapidly.

Fight Recap: Du Plessis’ Dominance Over Strickland

The fight started with a measured pace as both fighters tested each other’s range. Strickland, known for his high-volume striking and relentless pressure, attempted to control the octagon by keeping Du Plessis at bay with a steady jab. However, the South African champion showcased improved head movement and footwork, making it difficult for Strickland to establish a consistent rhythm.

Round-by-Round Breakdown

Round 1: Feeling Out Process

Strickland opened the fight with his signature jab-heavy approach, aiming to break down Du Plessis’ guard early. Du Plessis, in contrast, stayed patient, checking leg kicks and using feints to keep Strickland guessing. A few well-timed counterstrikes from Du Plessis hinted at his game plan—waiting for the perfect moment to unleash his power shots.

Round 2: Increased Aggression

As the second round began, Du Plessis started closing the distance and attacking Strickland’s body with powerful kicks. Strickland attempted to push forward with his signature combination striking, but Du Plessis’ ability to absorb shots and return fire kept him in control. A noticeable shift occurred when Du Plessis landed a crisp right hook, momentarily stunning Strickland.

Round 3: The Game-Changing Moment

The defining moment of the fight came midway through the third round. Du Plessis timed Strickland’s forward movement perfectly and unleashed a devastating right cross that connected flush, instantly breaking Strickland’s nose. Blood immediately poured from the former champ’s face, and his body language shifted as he struggled to regain composure.

“The second that punch landed, I knew it was a turning point,” Du Plessis said in the post-fight interview. “When you see the damage happening in real-time, you know you’re in control.”

Round 4 & 5: Closing the Show

Despite the injury, Strickland fought on, demonstrating his warrior spirit. However, his breathing became visibly labored, and his striking output diminished. Du Plessis capitalized, landing more significant shots and mixing in level changes to keep Strickland guessing. By the time the final horn sounded, it was clear that Du Plessis had dominated the fight.

The judges’ scorecards reflected this control, awarding Du Plessis a unanimous decision victory (50-45, 50-45, 49-46), cementing his reign as the middleweight champion.

Post-Fight Reactions and Fallout

Du Plessis’ Statement

After securing his title defense, Dricus Du Plessis addressed the media, emphasizing his desire to take on all challengers.

“I said it before, and I’ll say it again—I am the best middleweight in the world,” Du Plessis stated. “This division is mine, and I’m here to stay.”

He also acknowledged Strickland’s toughness, praising his opponent for refusing to quit despite the gruesome injury.

Strickland’s Response

Despite the loss, Sean Strickland remained defiant, refusing to make excuses.

“I’ve been in this game long enough to know some nights, you just get caught,” Strickland admitted. “He landed a great shot, but I’ll be back. This isn’t the last you’ve seen of me.”

However, Strickland’s night wasn’t just defined by his defeat—his ongoing feud with head coach Eric Nicksick took center stage in post-fight discussions.

Behind-the-Scenes Drama: Strickland vs. Nicksick

Leading up to UFC 312, tension had been brewing between Strickland and his long-time coach Eric Nicksick at Xtreme Couture. Reports surfaced that Strickland had failed to compensate Nicksick properly for his training camp, leading to a communication breakdown between the two.

“Sean ghosted Eric,” said MMA insider Justin Jaynes. “He straight-up ignored messages about payment, and that didn’t sit well with Nicksick.”

While Nicksick remained professional and cornered Strickland during the fight, sources suggest this might be the last time they work together. Strickland, when asked about the controversy, dismissed the situation:

“I don’t need anyone telling me how to fight,” he remarked. “I respect Eric, but at the end of the day, I’ll do what’s best for me.”

This internal conflict raises questions about Strickland’s future. Will he seek a new training camp or will he reconcile with Nicksick? Only time will tell.

What’s Next for the Middleweight Division?

With Du Plessis securing another successful title defense, the focus now shifts to who will challenge him next. Several contenders are in the mix, and UFC President Dana White hinted that a title eliminator bout could be announced soon.

Potential Challengers for Du Plessis’ Belt

1. Khamzat Chimaev (15-0)

The undefeated Khamzat Chimaev remains the most dangerous threat to Du Plessis’ title reign. His recent victory over Robert Whittaker showcased his elite wrestling and relentless pressure, making him a nightmare matchup for any middleweight.

“I want the belt,” Chimaev declared. “Du Plessis, I’m coming for you.”

If UFC books this fight, it could be one of the biggest middleweight showdowns in recent memory.

2. Israel Adesanya’s Potential Return

Although Adesanya has hinted at taking time off, speculation remains about his eventual return. A third fight between Adesanya and Du Plessis would undoubtedly be a massive PPV draw.

3. Nassourdine Imavov & Caio Borralho

Both Imavov and Borralho are surging contenders who could find themselves in a No. 1 contender fight soon. With impressive recent performances, they remain dark horses in the title picture.

Final Thoughts: The Du Plessis Era Is Here

With his victory at UFC 312, Dricus Du Plessis has firmly established himself as the top middleweight in the world. His ability to weather Strickland’s offense, land fight-changing shots, and maintain control for five rounds proves he is a legitimate champion.

However, the division remains stacked with talent, and his toughest tests may still lie ahead. Will Chimaev be next? Will Strickland work his way back into contention? No matter what happens, one thing is clear:

The UFC middleweight division has never been more exciting.

Key Takeaways from UFC 312

• Du Plessis lands a devastating right hand, breaking Strickland’s nose.
• Unanimous decision win (50-45, 50-45, 49-46) for Du Plessis.
• Strickland’s feud with coach Eric Nicksick could lead to major changes.
• Khamzat Chimaev, Israel Adesanya, and rising contenders loom as future threats.

Who should Du Plessis fight next? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!