UFC 297: Sean Strickland vs. Dricus du Plessis – A Clash of Titans

Main Event: Sean Strickland (c) vs. Dricus du Plessis – Middleweight Title Fight

The UFC 297 main event promises an electrifying showdown between reigning middleweight champion Sean Strickland and top contender Dricus du Plessis. Strickland, known for his unpredictable persona and controversial statements, has stirred up the MMA community yet stunned the world in 2023 by defeating then-champion Israel Adesanya. On the other hand, du Plessis has rapidly ascended the ranks, showcasing his versatility and relentless style against formidable opponents.

As these two warriors step into the octagon, the middleweight title hangs in the balance. Will Strickland retain his throne or will du Plessis dethrone the reigning king? The anticipation is palpable as the countdown to UFC 297 intensifies.

Co-Main Event: Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Raquel Pennington – Vacant Women’s Bantamweight Title Fight

In the co-main event, the vacant women’s bantamweight title is up for grabs as Mayra Bueno Silva and Raquel Pennington collide inside the octagon. This fight marks a pivotal moment in the division following Amanda Nunes’ retirement. Silva, a submission specialist, has dominated her opponents with her grappling prowess, while Pennington’s relentless pressure and cardio have earned her a reputation as a formidable force.

With the bantamweight throne vacant, Silva and Pennington are determined to seize the opportunity and make their mark in the division. Who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted title?

Other Notable Fights on the Card

UFC 297 features an exciting lineup of additional bouts that promise non-stop action.

• Mike Malott vs. Neil Magny (Welterweights): Malott, a rising star, faces a seasoned veteran in Magny. This welterweight clash promises a blend of power and experience.
• Chris Curtis vs. Marc-Andre Barriault (Middleweights): Curtis, known for his striking prowess, takes on Barriault, a well-rounded fighter. Expect a technical battle with explosive moments.
• Movsar Evloev vs. Arnold Allen (Featherweights): Two of the division’s top contenders square off in a highly anticipated featherweight bout. Evloev’s wrestling skills meet Allen’s striking expertise.
• Brad Katona vs. Garrett Armfield (Bantamweights): Katona, a submission specialist, faces Armfield, a rising prospect. This bantamweight matchup could end with a dramatic finish.
• Charles Jourdain vs. Sean Woodson (Featherweights): Jourdain, a dynamic striker, takes on Woodson, a dangerous finisher. Expect fireworks in this featherweight clash.
• Serhiy Sidey vs. Ramon Taveras (Bantamweights): Sidey, a submission threat, faces Taveras, a well-rounded fighter. This bantamweight bout could go either way.
• Gillian Robertson vs. Polyana Viana (Women’s Strawweights): Robertson, a grappling expert, meets Viana, a striking specialist. This women’s strawweight fight promises a clash of styles.
• Yohan Lainesse vs. Sam Patterson (Welterweights): Lainesse, a submission specialist, takes on Patterson, a striker with knockout power. This welterweight bout could end in a highlight-reel finish.
• Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Priscila Cachoeira (Women’s Flyweights): Jasudavicius, a rising prospect, faces Cachoeira, a veteran with a knack for finishes. This women’s flyweight fight is a clash of youth and experience.
• Malcolm Gordon vs. Jimmy Flick (Flyweights): Gordon, a submission specialist, meets Flick, a well-rounded fighter. This flyweight bout could be decided on the mat or the feet.

Predictions and Picks from CBS Sports Experts

Our team of experts has weighed in with their predictions for the main card of UFC 297:

Sean Strickland (c) vs. Dricus du Plessis

• Brent Brookhouse: Dricus du Plessis
• Brian Campbell: Dricus du Plessis
• Shakiel Mahjouri: Sean Strickland
• Michael Mormile: Sean Strickland
• Brandon Wise: Dricus du Plessis

Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Raquel Pennington

• Brent Brookhouse: Mayra Bueno Silva
• Brian Campbell: Mayra Bueno Silva
• Shakiel Mahjouri: Mayra Bueno Silva
• Michael Mormile: Mayra Bueno Silva
• Brandon Wise: Mayra Bueno Silva

Mike Malott vs. Neil Magny

• Brent Brookhouse: Mike Malott
• Brian Campbell: Mike Malott
• Shakiel Mahjouri: Mike Malott
• Michael Mormile: Mike Malott
• Brandon Wise: Mike Malott

Chris Curtis vs. Marc-Andre Barriault

• Brent Brookhouse: Chris Curtis
• Brian Campbell: Chris Curtis
• Shakiel Mahjouri: Chris Curtis
• Michael Mormile: Chris Curtis
• Brandon Wise: Chris Curtis

Don’t Miss the Action!

UFC 297 promises an unforgettable night of fights with championship implications and high-stakes matchups. Make sure to tune in and witness these warriors battle it out for glory inside the octagon. The stage is set for an epic event that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making!