South African UFC star Dricus du Plessis successfully defended his middleweight championship on Sunday with a unanimous decision victory over fierce rival Sean Strickland in a brutal five-round war at UFC 293 in Sydney, Australia.
In a fight that lived up to the heated build-up, du Plessis showcased his power, resilience, and warrior spirit, leaving Strickland bloodied and battered, particularly after a devastating strike that smashed his opponent’s nose. Despite Strickland’s notorious toughness and elite striking, the South African maintained relentless pressure, mixing calculated aggression with well-timed takedowns.
A Rivalry Settled in Blood
The tension between the two fighters had been boiling over for months, with Strickland engaging in trash talk and heated face-offs leading up to the bout. However, once inside the Octagon, du Plessis let his fists do the talking. From the opening round, both fighters exchanged heavy blows, but it was the champion who landed the most significant strikes.
By the championship rounds, du Plessis had inflicted visible damage on Strickland, whose face was drenched in blood. Despite the American’s refusal to back down, all three judges scored the fight in favor of du Plessis, cementing his status as the undisputed king of the middleweight division.
What’s Next for Du Plessis?
With this victory, du Plessis extends his unbeaten UFC record and strengthens his claim as one of the most dominant middleweights in the world. Talk now turns to his next challenger, with potential blockbuster fights looming against former champion Israel Adesanya or rising contender Jared Cannonier.
For South African MMA fans, du Plessis’ triumph is another historic moment, proving that he belongs among the UFC’s elite. As he continues his reign, one thing is certain—his warrior mentality and devastating power make him a force to be reckoned with in the Octagon.
