Dricus Du Plessis vs Sean Strickland — Fight recap

Dricus Du Plessis defeated Sean Strickland via split decision after five rounds on January 20, 2024, in a middleweight clash that showcased two distinct approaches. Du Plessis landed 137 significant strikes at 38% accuracy while securing six takedowns on 11 attempts, controlling 2:08 of cage time to dictate the fight's rhythm.

Strickland countered with superior striking volume, landing 173 significant strikes at 42% accuracy across 408 total attempts, but his inability to secure any takedowns left him vulnerable to Du Plessis's grappling pressure. The South African's wrestling prowess proved decisive despite the striking disparity, as he controlled the ground game entirely and dictated positional exchanges.

Du Plessis's body work—32 of 37 strikes connected—inflicted cumulative damage that likely swayed the judges in his favor. The victory positions Du Plessis as a legitimate middleweight contender while raising questions about Strickland's path forward in the division.