UFC 312: How to solve the puzzle of Dricus Du Plessis

Michael Bolton

UFC 312 will see a rematch between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland for the middleweight title in Australia.

13 months ago, it was Du Plessis who came out on the right side of the split decision to take the title away from Strickland at UFC 297.

In a five-round war, the South African used all his skills to grind out the decision, as he continues to be a fascinating fighter.

He may not have spectacular striking, wrestling, or grappling, but very few can put them together like he can.

[caption id="attachment_1727601" align="alignnone" width="819"]img Photo: Sofascore.[/caption]

In his win over Robert Whittaker, Du Plessis showed his power with a second-round knockout. While in his last title defence against Israel Adesanya, his grappling led to the submission victory.

Often unpredictable, it is what makes him so dangerous.

Against Strickland, he will face someone who has arguably the best cardio in the division and will use his boxing as the key to victory.

Strickland may not have the knockout power to end the fight, but his volume and accuracy make him a difficult opponent for anyone in the division.

In what could be another five-round battle, whoever gets their hand raised in the early hours of Sunday morning will have earned it.

In the co-main event at UFC 312, Zhang Weili defends her strawweight title against Tatiana Suarez.

In her second title reign, this will be Weili's third title defence, following wins over Amanda Lemos and Yan Xiaonan.

As time goes on, Weili's grappling has become her biggest weapon. However, against Suarez, expect some great wrestling and grappling exchanges throughout the fight.

Had it not been for injuries to Suarez, we would have likely already seen this fight, or Suarez could already be champion.

Going into this bout, there is no doubting Suarez's ability, with her power and wrestling some of the best in the division, with wins over the likes of Carla Esparza and Jessica Andrade.

However, after so much time away from the sport, and at the age of 34, could the long layoffs take their toll on Suarez?

In what should be a fascinating match-up, Weili may lean more on her striking, as she aims to continue her dominance as champion.