In the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts, decisions can be as contentious as the battles inside the Octagon. The recent clash between Sean Strickland and Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297 left fans divided, raising several eyebrows and one question: Does Strickland deserve an immediate rematch?
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus du Plessis: running it back
Strickland, the former UFC middleweight champion, lost his belt in a narrow split decision against du Plessis in the main event of UFC 297 on January 20. The Toronto headliner showcased five intense rounds, with both fighters displaying their skills and determination. But it was the judges’ scorecards that ultimately determined the outcome, leaving Strickland without the title he had worked so hard to attain.
While the new 185-pound champ was crowned, the aftermath of the fight was not so smooth for several reasons.
The split decision was far from unanimous. UFC CEO Dana White himself believed Strickland had won the fight, scoring it 2-2 going into the fifth round. Strickland’s performance was commendable, and the stats supported his claim.
“Tarzan” himself recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to reiterate the same, demanding an immediate rematch.
“You know I don’t care about fight politics or a belt but it makes me laugh they give izzy a rematch to alex after getting slept.. I lost a close decision that dana himself thought I won. Everyone did.. The stats did. That needs to be run back..” wrote Strickland.
You know I don't care about fight politics or a belt but it makes me laugh they give izzy a rematch to alex after getting slept..
I lost a close decision that dana himself thought I won. Everyone did.. The stats did.
That needs to be run back..
— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) March 13, 2024
Strickland is undoubtedly one of the most deserving contenders in the middleweight division. With 28 wins, 6 losses, and 15 victories in the UFC, his record speaks for itself. The 33-year-old’s relentless style and technical prowess make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the weight class.
The UFC has also granted immediate rematches in the past. Former champion Israel Adesanya received a rematch against Alex Pereira at UFC 287 after losing his belt at UFC 281. If Adesanya, who was knocked out, got a second chance, why not Strickland, who lost by a slim margin?
However, the road to a rematch isn’t straightforward. The UFC had initially considered booking du Plessis against Adesanya for the UFC 300 main event. Although that matchup didn’t materialize, it remains a likely plan for the next 185-pound title bout.
In the end, the decision lies with the promotion. Will they heed Strickland’s call for a rematch, or will du Plessis move forward with a different opponent? Fans eagerly await the verdict, knowing that a second showdown between these two warriors would be nothing short of electrifying.
Do you think Sean Strickland deserves an immediate rematch with Dricus du Plessis? Let us know in the comment section below.
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