UFC 312: Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2 and Expert Predictions
Main Event: Middleweight Title Rematch
Dricus du Plessis (c) vs. Sean Strickland
The first encounter between these middleweights at UFC 297 ended in controversy, with du Plessis capturing the title via split decision in a razor-close fight that many observers felt Strickland had won. The controversial nature of that result has set the stage for what should be an intense rematch.
Strickland enters this bout with a chip on his shoulder, repeatedly stating in pre-fight interviews that he was “robbed” of the championship. His disciplined striking and pressure-heavy approach troubled du Plessis in their first meeting, particularly his jab and lateral movement that prevented the South African from establishing his rhythm.
For du Plessis, this represents an opportunity to silence doubters and cement his status as the division’s legitimate champion. Currently riding an impressive eight-fight win streak (including victories over Robert Whittaker and Strickland), “Stillknocks” has shown remarkable adaptability throughout his UFC tenure. His camp has indicated they’ve made significant adjustments to counter Strickland’s boxing-heavy approach.
The tactical chess match will likely center around du Plessis’ attempts to close distance and utilize his grappling advantage, while Strickland will aim to keep the fight at boxing range where he excelled in the first contest.
Betting Odds:
- Dricus du Plessis: -210 (favorite)
- Sean Strickland: +175
Co-Main Event: Women’s Strawweight Title Fight
Zhang Weili (c) vs. Tatiana Suarez
The women’s strawweight title is on the line as dominant champion Zhang Weili faces perhaps her toughest stylistic challenge in undefeated Tatiana Suarez.
What makes this matchup particularly intriguing is Suarez entering as the betting favorite despite her long injury layoff. The former wrestling standout has drawn comparisons to Khabib Nurmagomedov for her smothering grappling style, going a perfect 10-0 in her professional career with dominant victories over former champion Carla Esparza and top contender Alexa Grasso.
Zhang brings an exceptionally well-rounded skill set to this contest. The Chinese champion has evolved into one of the UFC’s most complete fighters, combining devastating striking power with significantly improved wrestling and submission defense. Her recent victories over Carla Esparza, Amanda Lemos, and Rose Namajunas have showcased her growth as a fighter.
The key question is whether Suarez’s wrestling pedigree can overcome Zhang’s improved takedown defense, or if the champion’s striking advantage will prove decisive if the fight remains standing.
Betting Odds:
- Tatiana Suarez: -120 (slight favorite)
- Zhang Weili: +100
Other Main Card Fights
Heavyweight: Tallison Teixeira vs. Justin Tafa
This heavyweight clash features UFC newcomer Tallison Teixeira against fan-favorite Justin Tafa in what should be an explosive contest.
Teixeira arrives with considerable hype, bringing an undefeated 18-0 record largely built on the Brazilian regional scene. His combination of jiu-jitsu credentials and developing striking makes him an intriguing addition to the heavyweight division.
Tafa, fighting in his native Australia, has become known for his thunderous knockout power and crowd-pleasing style. While his UFC record has been inconsistent, his last two victories have come via first-round knockout, reinforcing his reputation as a dangerous finisher.
Light Heavyweight: Rodolfo Bellato vs. Jimmy Crute
Rising Brazilian prospect Rodolfo Bellato faces Australian Jimmy Crute in a compelling light heavyweight contest. Bellato impressed in his UFC debut after earning a contract on Dana White’s Contender Series, while Crute looks to rebuild momentum after a difficult stretch against top-ranked competition.
Welterweight: Jake Matthews vs. Francisco Prado
Australian veteran Jake Matthews welcomes Argentine prospect Francisco Prado in a welterweight bout that could determine which fighter moves toward the division’s rankings. Matthews brings significant UFC experience, while the younger Prado offers explosive finishing potential.
CBS Sports Expert Predictions
The expert panel at CBS Sports has weighed in on the main card fights, with some interesting trends emerging in their forecasts:
For the main event, a clear majority (5 of 7 experts) are predicting du Plessis to retain his title, though most anticipate another closely contested fight. The prevailing view suggests du Plessis’ adjustments and greater diversity of attacks will prove decisive in the rematch.
The co-main event between Zhang and Suarez has analysts divided, reflecting the compelling style matchup. Three experts are picking Zhang to retain her title through superior striking and improved takedown defense, while four believe Suarez’s wrestling prowess will crown a new champion.
The heavyweight clash between Teixeira and Tafa has also split opinion, with some experts favoring the technical polish of the newcomer Teixeira, while others expect Tafa’s experience and knockout power to carry the day in front of his home crowd.
As UFC 312 approaches, these championship rematches and compelling stylistic matchups promise high drama and potential division-altering results in what should be one of the year’s most consequential fight cards.
UFC 312 predictions, best bets, odds: Dricus du Plessis …
