The fight was razor-close on the scorecards, but Du Plessis ultimately got the job done, earning a split decision victory to become the first South African champion in UFC history. The win also silenced critics of his cardio, as he went the full 25 minutes with Strickland, a relentless pressure fighter known for pushing the pace.
Despite capturing a UFC title, he was still highly doubted in his first title defense against Adesanya in Perth at UFC 305. Not only did he defeat “The Last Stylebender,” but Du Plessis became the first fighter ever to submit Adesanya.
View The Entire UFC 319 Card
Du Plessis returned to Australia in February of this year to rematch Strickland. Since there were many who weren’t convinced of Du Plessis’ first win over him, “Stillknocks” made sure to do it more impressively the second time around, dominating Strickland and earning 50-45 scores from two of the three judges.
With two title defenses, du Plessis finds himself one win away from becoming the fourth fighter in UFC middleweight history to defend the title at least three times, joining Chris Weidman (3), Israel Adesanya (5) and Anderson Silva (10).
