History was made for South Africa as Dricus du Plessis beat Sean Strickland in the UFC main event to become the new UFC middleweight champion of the world!
South Africans across the country woke up very early on Sunday morning to watch the spectacular showpiece, and it didn’t disappoint.
Both fighters pulled out all the stops, and some massive blows saw the blood flowing freely. Du Plessis’ left eye also took some serious damage, and it looked uncertain whether he would be able to get the upper hand in the first three rounds.
But come the fourth and fifth round, Du Plessis seemed to be re-energized and the crowd got behind him in a big way.
In the end it was a very close call for the judges, but a win is a win!
South Africans from all walks of life have expressed their pride in our new champion!
Nou weet hulle wat ons weet!!
#Dricus follows the script. South Africa by a point! 😎❤️🇿🇦💪👏 https://t.co/rXbrAdTDjl
— Mark Keohane (@mark_keohane) January 21, 2024
Congratulations! UFC Champion middle weight champ!#Dricus pic.twitter.com/70cgJfLL7Y
— Jonathan Najoe (@JonathanNajoe) January 21, 2024
It took just 1 point and a Nation behind him… 🇿🇦🔥
Congratulations @dricusduplessis
a gentleman and fighter! #NouWeetHulleWatOnsWeet #Dricus#StricklandvsDuPlessis pic.twitter.com/7T72LxIXmE— Michelle Sutton (@Mish1506) January 21, 2024
"Suid-Afrika! Nou weet hulle wat ons weet!" 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️
The Champ has spoken!!! 🇿🇦#UFC297 #dricusduplessis #Dricus pic.twitter.com/mCoaBPzyc7— Tyrone Prins (@itsTyronePrins) January 21, 2024
"Can i get my flag! Coach can i get my flag!!!" Man he came and conquered! Well done @dricusduplessis! Proudly South African 🇿🇦🇿🇦#Dricus pic.twitter.com/byhGXyvopu
— Kwenza B (@kwenza_b) January 21, 2024
