Read about the thrilling main event at UFC 297 where Dricus Du Plessis upset Sean Strickland in an epic battle. Du Plessis secured a split decision win after showcasing relentless pressure. Find out about the respectful rivalry and the potential money fight between Du Plessis and former champion Israel Adesanya.
| Result | Dricus Du Plessis defeats Sean Strickland via split decision |
|---|---|
| Fight Duration | 5 rounds |
| Judges’ Scores | 49-48, 49-48, 48-49 |
| Notable Injuries | Sean Strickland suffered a gash near his left eye, while Dricus Du Plessis had significant swelling over his left eyelid |
| Post-Fight Callout | Dricus Du Plessis called out Israel Adesanya for a potential fight |
The main event at UFC 297 featured an intense battle between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland. Du Plessis emerged as the victor with a split decision win. The fight lasted for 5 rounds, and the judges’ scores were 49-48 in favor of Du Plessis and 48-49 in favor of Strickland. Both fighters sustained injuries during the fight, with Strickland suffering a gash near his left eye and Du Plessis dealing with significant swelling over his left eyelid. In his post-fight speech, Du Plessis called out former champion Israel Adesanya for a potential fight.
Dricus Du Plessis Upsets Sean Strickland
In a thrilling main event at UFC 297 held at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Dricus Du Plessis emerged victorious over Sean Strickland. The fight went the distance, with Du Plessis securing a split decision win. The judges scored it 49-48 in favor of Du Plessis, while one judge gave the fight to Strickland with the same score.
Throughout the five-round war, Du Plessis showcased relentless pressure that wore down Strickland. Both fighters displayed incredible resilience, with Strickland sustaining a nasty gash near his left eye and Du Plessis battling significant swelling over his left eyelid. The electrifying performance by Du Plessis and Strickland redeemed the event after a lackluster co-main event.
Respectful Rivalry
Despite the animosity leading up to the fight, Du Plessis and Strickland showed respect towards each other in the Octagon and during the post-fight press conferences. While Strickland expressed interest in a rematch, Du Plessis used his post-fight speech to call out former champion Israel Adesanya.
Adesanya vs. Du Plessis: A Money Fight
Israel Adesanya, a former two-time UFC middleweight champion, is being called out by Du Plessis for a highly anticipated showdown. Adesanya took a break from the sport after losing the title to Strickland in September 2023. If Adesanya is ready to make his return, the fight between him and Du Plessis promises to be a lucrative clash filled with memorable quotes.
