The lineup for UFC 312 has been met with skepticism. While some viewers are hesitant about the quality of matches, Dricus du Plessis stands out as a beacon of success and controversy in the middleweight category. Having defended his title—something his predecessor Sean Strickland couldn’t accomplish—du Plessis has proven his mettle by finishing four of his last five opponents, including notable fighters like Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya.
Critics argue that despite du Plessis’ undefeated streak in the UFC and his impressive record of eight straight wins, there’s still something missing that stops him from being perceived as the definitive champion. “Truly, how could he reasonably have done any better than he already has?” one might ask, recognizing the fighter’s achievements amidst the ongoing debate about his star quality and the aura of an elite champion.
Economic Motives Over Spectacle?
The strategic decisions by the UFC to host events on Super Bowl weekend have evolved over the years. Previously, this weekend was reserved for blockbuster fights, such as the iconic clash between Georges St-Pierre and B.J. Penn. However, the shift in focus is evident as UFC now saves its marquee matchups for less competitive dates. This decision likely stems from a commercial perspective—maximizing viewership and revenue on weekends free from football’s overwhelming presence.
“Especially in a place like Australia, where there’s an energetic fan base that will scoop up tickets without knowing who’s on the card, there really isn’t a ton of financial incentive to make sure the lineup is anything beyond just barely passable,” reflects the consideration behind the scenes. This commercial strategy might explain the perceived lack of depth in the lineup, suggesting the UFC’s focus might lean more towards economic gains than fan service.
Highlight Fighters to Watch: Zhang Weili and Tatiana Suarez
Despite some criticism, UFC 312 isn’t without its draws. Zhang Weili and Tatiana Suarez stand out as fighters worth watching. Zhang, known for her dominance and comprehensive skill set, remains an underrated talent in the roster. Suarez, making a comeback with a compelling personal journey and battling through severe back issues, adds a layer of human interest and resilience to the event.
The Bigger Picture: UFC’s Policies and Practices
The UFC’s handling of controversies, including its reluctance to penalize fighters for hate speech and other misconduct, continues to stir debate. The organization has been criticized for inconsistent enforcement of its policies, often influenced more by financial considerations than ethical standards. This selective action has led to accusations of hypocrisy, particularly when commercial interests are at stake.
As UFC 312 approaches, the decision to purchase the event boils down to personal preference. For hardcore fans, the presence of fighters like Zhang Weili and the controversial yet talented Dricus du Plessis may be enough. However, for casual viewers, the appeal of Super Bowl festivities might outweigh the allure of a fight card perceived as subpar.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.