Strickland Vs Du Plessis 2: UFC 312 Scorecard

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Strickland vs. Du Plessis 2: UFC 312 Scorecard Breakdown and Analysis

The highly anticipated rematch between Jared Strickland and Dricus du Plessis at UFC 312 delivered a thrilling spectacle, leaving fans and pundits debating the final scorecards. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the fight, analyzing the key moments and judging criteria to understand how the judges arrived at their decisions. We'll delve into each round, examining significant strikes, takedowns, and control time to provide a clearer picture of who ultimately won the fight.

Round-by-Round Breakdown: Strickland vs. Du Plessis 2

Round 1: This round was a closely contested affair. Strickland started strong with his signature unorthodox striking, landing several impactful shots. Du Plessis, however, showed improved takedown defense and countered with powerful strikes of his own. While Strickland may have landed more significant strikes, Du Plessis's aggression and occasional takedown attempts made it a very difficult round to score definitively. Verdict: A very close round, potentially a 10-9 for either fighter depending on individual scoring criteria.

Round 2: Du Plessis began to find his rhythm in the second round. He showed improved timing on his counters and began to utilize his wrestling more effectively. While Strickland still landed some significant strikes, Du Plessis's consistent pressure and takedowns likely swayed the round in his favor. The control time on the ground, even if short-lived, can significantly impact the judges' scoring. Verdict: Likely a 10-9 for Du Plessis.

Round 3: The third round saw a return to the striking battle from Round 1. Both fighters traded significant strikes, but Du Plessis seemed to land cleaner shots with more power. Strickland's unorthodox style continued to make him difficult to predict, but Du Plessis displayed a more calculated approach. The round was close, yet Du Plessis's consistent aggression and effective striking might have given him a slight edge. Verdict: Potentially a 10-9 for Du Plessis, though arguable.

Round 4: This round solidified Du Plessis's dominance. He landed several hard shots that visibly impacted Strickland. While Strickland attempted to counter, Du Plessis's superior power and accuracy began to dictate the pace and outcome of the exchanges. The closing seconds saw Du Plessis press the action, leaving no doubt about who controlled the round. Verdict: A clear 10-9 for Du Plessis.

Round 5: The final round was a testament to Du Plessis's improved cardio and overall fighting skill. He continued his aggressive striking, effectively countering Strickland's attempts to close the distance. While Strickland showed heart and determination, he couldn't overcome Du Plessis's power and precision. Du Plessis closed the fight strong, demonstrating his clear victory. Verdict: A decisive 10-9 for Du Plessis.

Analyzing the Official Scorecards: Controversy and Consensus

The official scorecards often become a point of debate following any close fight, and this one was no exception. While the specific scorecards from UFC 312 are readily available online via reputable MMA news outlets, remember that these scores represent the judges' individual assessments based on their interpretation of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts.

Analyzing the potential variations in scoring, it's evident that several factors could have contributed to differing opinions:

• Significant Strikes vs. Control Time: The debate often revolves around the emphasis placed on significant strikes versus control time. Some judges might prioritize the impact of landed strikes, while others might weigh the control gained during grappling exchanges more heavily.
• Subjectivity in Judging: Ultimately, judging in MMA remains somewhat subjective. What one judge sees as a clear round, another might perceive differently. The speed and complexity of the fight can make it difficult to score definitively.

Conclusion: A Victory for Du Plessis

Based on the round-by-round breakdown, Du Plessis's victory appears justified, even considering the inherent subjectivity of MMA judging. His improved takedown defense, increased striking accuracy, and sustained aggression ultimately gave him the edge over Strickland. While the first round could be debated, the remaining rounds clearly leaned in Du Plessis's favor. This fight highlighted his significant growth as a fighter and solidified his position as a rising contender in the UFC middleweight division. The rematch provided a compelling narrative, showcasing improved skills and a decisive outcome that resonated with much of the audience.