Janice R. Andrews
Dricus Du Plessis made history by becoming the first South African middleweight champion in UFC history during the thrilling main event of UFC 297 in Toronto. The arduous triumph was achieved in a three-way split decision (48-47, 48-47, 47-48) against the current champion, Sean Strickland.
Du Plessis Overcomes Initial Difficulties
In the opening rounds, Strickland showed command with a commanding performance, using a strong jab and keeping his composure. Even though Strickland had the upper hand early on, Du Plessis showed resiliency by getting past the champion’s resistance and landing an impressive takedown. Du Plessis freely conceded that Strickland’s strong jab was a serious challenge, likening it to being struck by a rock.
Du Plessis managed to create a shift in momentum as the fight went on. In the second round, both combatants showed signs of injury: Du Plessis was tending to a virtually closed left eye, and Strickland had a little amount of blood close to his right eye. Despite the difficulties, Du Plessis never gave up and always looked for opportunities to show off his strength, which created the conditions for an exciting and hotly contested clash.
Momentum Turns Towards Du Plessis
In the third round, Du Plessis’s increased eagerness, encouraged by his corner, caused the tide to decisively change. He set the stage for a crucial time in the fourth round by handily winning the round. The battle took a different turn when Du Plessis delivered a forceful elbow that caused a large cut on Strickland’s left side of the face. With three successful takedowns to end the round, Du Plessis demonstrated his wide range of abilities.
Du Plessis appeared to be in the lead, or at least in a tie, as the fifth and final round got underway. Even though Du Plessis had the advantage in momentum, Strickland rallied in the last few minutes. The battle was close throughout, with both boxers trading blows; if the judges had the fight tied after round four, Strickland may have won.
Nevertheless, Du Plessis benefited from the mathematical computation. Both combatants gave each other a hug as the last bell rang, capping an exhausting bout that was stoked by animosity stemming from Strickland’s devastating attack on Du Plessis during their first meeting at UFC 296.
What Happens to Dricus Du Plessis Next?
In addition to securing Dricus Du Plessis’ place as the UFC middleweight champion, this momentous victory also marks a turning point in South African sports history. As everyone celebrates this victory, one would wonder, “What’s next for the newly crowned champion?”This is definitely a sad result for Strickland after his career-defining shock victory against Israel Adesanya to win the title. All he can do now is hope for a second opportunity and atonement.
Du Plessis has a plethora of alternatives when it comes to possible opponents thanks to the UFC. When asked who he would battle next, Du Plessis immediately mentioned Israel Adesanya. Du Plessis yelled, “Israel Adesanya, get your ass back in the UFC so we can settle the score.”
The middleweight category is further enhanced by the intriguing presence of Khamzat Chimaev, who has indicated interest in competing at UFC 300. After UFC 297, fans across the world are eagerly awaiting Du Plessis’ next move, which is sure to provide more thrills.
