Decisive Championship Defense in Sydney

South African champion Dricus Du Plessis successfully defended his UFC middleweight belt with a unanimous win over bitter rival Sean Strickland in a bloody title fight in Sydney. The 31-year-old champion impressed the judges, who scored the bout 50-45, 50-45, 49-46, improving his record to 23-2 and solidifying his position as the top fighter in the 185-pound division.

Fight Breakdown and Decisive Moments

The fight began methodically with Du Plessis utilizing his signature head kicks in the opening round, landing four significant strikes. As the fight progressed into the second round, the champion increased his offensive output, landing combinations to Strickland’s face that drew blood.

While the first three rounds remained competitive, they clearly favored the champion. The defining moment came in the fourth round when a clean right hand from Du Plessis shattered Strickland’s nose, leaving the challenger’s face bloodied as he returned to his corner.

Championship Implications

With this victory, Du Plessis has now achieved his second successful title defense, tying Chris Weidman for the third-longest win streak (9) in UFC middleweight history, trailing only former champions Israel Adesanya (12) and Anderson Silva (13).

Looking ahead, the division’s landscape appears exciting as potential challengers Khamzat Chimaev and Nassourdine Imavov emerge as possible contenders for the champion’s next defense. Du Plessis, who made history as the first South African to win a UFC championship, continues to demonstrate why he belongs at the top of the division.