UFC 312 saw Dricus du Plessis and Zhang Weili retain their titles with dominant performances, though the event was largely considered lackluster outside of these main bouts, with discussions centering on du Plessis’s potential future fights and Zhang’s status as possibly the greatest strawweight of all time.
UFC 312 has wrapped up, and both Dricus du Plessis and Zhang Weili remain champions. In Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, du Plessis showed undeniable dominance over Sean Strickland, retaining his middleweight title after a grueling 25-minute battle. Meanwhile, Zhang Weili solidified her status as potentially the greatest strawweight of all time with a decisive win over Tatiana Suarez.
Beyond these headline fights, the rest of the UFC pay-per-view didn’t offer much to write home about. However, it was still a significant event, prompting MMA Fighting to gather experts for a breakdown of the card. So, what did they think? Let’s dive in.
Lee noted that UFC 312 delivered exactly what was expected, though that’s not necessarily praise. While some early matches sparked interest, none were electrifying (except perhaps Rongzhu’s Fight of the Night against Kody Steele). With another APEX event looming, this one might soon be forgotten.
Heck found the event slightly better than anticipated, though expectations were low. The main card offered two decent scraps, a brutal knockout, and dominant championship performances. Aleksandre Topuria emerged as an intriguing story at 135 pounds—worth keeping an eye on.
Martin described the card as lackluster, with little drama outside the main bouts. The event might linger in discussions due to an upcoming lackluster UFC card but is more about future implications than past excitement.
Meshew summed it up: you got what you paid for. Everyone knew there were two solid fights atop a weak card. Those who shelled out $80 knew what they were buying—high-level fights between top contenders but not much else.
Now, about Dricus du Plessis—are we believers? Meshew laughed off any doubt, claiming early belief in du Plessis’ talent and enjoying watching skeptics come around. Lee hesitated to fully commit but acknowledged du Plessis’ skill in winning big fights despite his risky style.
Heck admitted he took longer to join the bandwagon but is now all-in after du Plessis’ victory over Robert Whittaker. He eagerly anticipates a matchup with Khamzat Chimaev, predicting an exciting fight if du Plessis can survive into Round 2.
Martin echoed similar sentiments, appreciating du Plessis’ unorthodox yet effective style. Despite not being technically elite in striking or grappling, his approach works well for him. The potential clash with Chimaev is generating buzz.
As for Zhang Weili’s status as the greatest strawweight ever? Lee believes so, despite two losses to Rose Namajunas. Zhang’s consistent performance and fewer blemishes make her stand out over Namajunas and Joanna Jedrzejczyk.
Heck wholeheartedly agrees. Zhang’s dominance over Tatiana Suarez showcased her superiority in the division. Her future may lie at flyweight, adding new challenges to her impressive career.
Martin concurs that Zhang’s record speaks volumes. With two championships and four title defenses, she’s cemented her legacy at strawweight and could soon enter discussions as one of the greatest women fighters overall.
Meshew also sees Zhang as the strawweight GOAT after UFC 312. Her win over Suarez adds weight to her already strong resume, positioning her among top female fighters like Amanda Nunes and Valentina Shevchenko.
Who was the biggest loser of UFC 312? Lee pointed to Tatiana Suarez’s defeat by Zhang Weili. At 34 and with a history of injuries, it’s uncertain how many fights she has left or if she’ll regain title contention motivation.
Heck argued Sean Strickland lost more than just a fight—perhaps his last chance at a title shot. Though still capable of big matches, middleweight competition is fierce with emerging talents like Caio Borralho and Bo Nickal.
Martin agreed Strickland’s days as a contender might be over. Known more for his mic antics than octagon prowess, his defensive style limits his potential for thrilling finishes needed to climb back up the ranks.
Meshew disagreed with others’ assessments, citing Manon Fiorot as the real loser—despite not fighting at UFC 312! Fiorot risks being overlooked for a title shot against Valentina Shevchenko due to business priorities favoring other matchups like Zhang vs. Shevchenko.
Outside the top two fights, who shone brightest? Lee suggested anyone who paid full price deserved recognition for enduring an underwhelming card. Heck chose Aleksandre Topuria for impressing in his bantamweight debut against tough opposition.
Martin highlighted Rongzhu and Kody Steele’s entertaining prelims battle—a standout amidst forgettable bouts elsewhere on the card. Meshew gave kudos to UFC’s announcement during broadcast: Israel Adesanya vs Kelvin Gastelum entering Hall of Fame—a memorable fight worth revisiting!