The electrifying spectacle of UFC 312 left fans on the edge of their seats, with an action-packed card featuring thrilling knockouts, dominant performances, and controversial decisions. Headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland for the UFC Middleweight Championship, the event carried immense expectations. Did the main event and the rest of the card live up to the hype? Let’s break down each fight and hand out grades based on performance, excitement, and overall impact.
Main Event: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2
Grade: A–
The rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland had all the makings of a classic. Their first bout was a war of attrition, and this one was no different. From the opening bell, Strickland utilized his crisp boxing and footwork to keep Du Plessis at bay. However, Du Plessis, known for his relentless pressure and awkward striking, made key adjustments, landing powerful shots and mixing in takedowns.
As the fight progressed, the intensity only increased. Both fighters had their moments, with Strickland’s counter-striking posing problems for Du Plessis, but the South African fighter’s durability and persistence paid off. In a razor-thin decision, Du Plessis secured the victory, cementing his place as the undisputed middleweight champion. While it may not have been the fight of the year, it certainly delivered an elite-level battle worthy of a high grade.
Co-Main Event: Lightweight Clash – Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan
Grade: A
This bout was a thrilling showcase of high-level MMA. Oliveira, the former champion, came in looking to prove he still belonged in the title conversation, while Tsarukyan was out to solidify himself as the division’s next big contender.
From the start, Oliveira displayed his signature aggressive style, pressing forward with strikes and constantly threatening submissions. Tsarukyan, however, showed incredible composure, countering effectively and using his wrestling to control key moments of the fight.
The grappling exchanges were nothing short of elite, with Oliveira nearly locking in a submission multiple times. Tsarukyan’s defense and ability to scramble out of danger were commendable, and he managed to turn the tide with relentless ground-and-pound. The fight ended in a hard-fought decision for Tsarukyan, marking the biggest win of his career. Both fighters delivered a fight that had the crowd roaring, earning a well-deserved ‘A’ grade.
Bantamweight Showdown: Petr Yan vs. Merab Dvalishvili
Grade: B+
This fight had the potential to be a barnburner, and while it was exciting, it didn’t quite reach its full potential. Yan, the former champion, showcased his striking prowess early, landing clean punches and solid leg kicks. However, Dvalishvili’s cardio and relentless wrestling proved to be the difference-maker.
Dvalishvili executed a suffocating game plan, continuously shooting for takedowns and keeping Yan on the defensive. While Yan had his moments in the striking exchanges, he struggled to keep the fight standing for extended periods. Dvalishvili’s dominant wrestling and ability to control the pace secured him a unanimous decision victory. Though it was a strong performance, the one-sided nature of the fight prevents it from earning a higher grade.
Featherweight Firefight: Brian Ortega vs. Yair Rodriguez
Grade: A–
When two dynamic finishers like Ortega and Rodriguez step into the octagon, fireworks are expected—and they delivered. This fight was a striking masterclass mixed with high-level grappling, making it one of the most entertaining matchups of the night.
Rodriguez came out firing, using his unorthodox striking to keep Ortega guessing. Ortega, known for his resilience, took some damage early but managed to close the distance and showcase his elite-level jiu-jitsu. At one point, he nearly locked in a tight triangle choke, but Rodriguez’s submission defense saved him.
The momentum shifted back and forth until Ortega landed a decisive sequence, rocking Rodriguez with a right hand and following up with a submission attempt. The fight ended with Ortega securing a dramatic late-round finish, reminding fans why he’s one of the division’s most dangerous threats.
Women’s Strawweight Bout: Weili Zhang vs. Tatiana Suarez
Grade: B
This fight had significant implications for the strawweight division, with Zhang defending her title against the undefeated grappling specialist, Suarez. The fight was a tactical battle, with Zhang using her striking to keep Suarez at bay, while Suarez attempted to impose her wrestling.
Suarez found early success with her takedowns, but Zhang’s striking made a significant impact, as she landed powerful counters whenever Suarez closed the distance. The fight ultimately went the distance, with Zhang securing a split-decision victory. While it was a solid contest, the methodical pace and lack of high-action sequences kept it from being an instant classic.
Final Verdict: Did UFC 312 Deliver?
Overall, UFC 312 lived up to its expectations, offering a mix of high-level technical battles and dramatic finishes. While some fights were more tactical than explosive, the card delivered enough memorable moments to be considered a success. The main event was competitive, the co-main event was an instant classic, and the undercard provided a mix of action-packed fights and strategic battles.
Final Event Grade: A-
Despite a couple of slower fights, the sheer quality of performances across the board made this a must-watch event. Fans were treated to high-level MMA, and several fighters elevated their stock significantly. Whether you were watching for championship implications, elite grappling exchanges, or all-out wars, UFC 312 had something for everyone.
