Get ready for an in-depth look at recent events and upcoming action in the UFC’s middleweight, lightweight, and featherweight divisions. Dave Simon and AJ D’Alesio sat down on Ringside Report MMA to talk about the aftermath of UFC 312—centering on Sean Strickland’s title loss to Dricus Du Plessis—and offered betting picks, audience feedback, and a lively breakdown of UFC Fight Night 251: Cannonier vs. Rodrigues.
Anyone interested in the latest MMA storylines will enjoy their takes on what happened with Strickland, why Du Plessis looks dangerous, how Islam Makhachev might meet Ilia Topuria soon, and which fighters could break out at UFC Fight Night 251. You can catch the replay on YouTube, Rumble, Twitch, or Kick, or listen to the audio version on your favourite podcast platform.
Table of Contents
UFC Fight Club – Exclusive Member Benefits
Dricus Du Plessis’ Impact and Sean Strickland’s Title Defeat
Strickland’s Loss and Coach Controversy
Sean Strickland lost his UFC middleweight title to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 312, and Dave brought up some drama surrounding Strickland’s coach. Dave mentioned how Strickland’s own corner publicly criticized his performance:
“It wasn’t a great performance from Strickland. He obviously came up on the losing end, but I’m surprised at the reaction.” — Dave Simon.
This comment referred to the public statements by Eric Nicksick, who suggested that he might step away from cornering Strickland if the fighter only wanted to compete for money rather than aim for a championship mindset. Dave felt it was unusual for a coach to question a fighter that way openly:
“I’m surprised his coach went out in public on a podcast and said that stuff.” — Dave Simon
Strickland later clarified that he still views his coach as a friend, but he hinted he might look elsewhere for future fight camps.
Strickland’s Injuries and Output
Some fans thought Strickland looked flat, but he came into the fight with reported arm issues and ended up with a broken nose in the championship rounds. AJ suggested that the broken nose sealed his fate:
“There was something off, Dave. Let’s be honest. When Strickland came in, I think the shattering of the nose was enough to… he couldn’t breathe right. It definitely took the spirit out of him.” — AJ D’Alesio.
Strickland’s style has always been about methodical striking and steady pressure, yet Du Plessis pushed a pace that wore him down. Once Strickland’s nose got destroyed late in the fight, he couldn’t recover. AJ said many fighters would have quit, but Strickland hung on, showing toughness even while losing.
Next Step: Gatekeeper or Another Run?
With Strickland’s reign cut short, the conversation turned to his future. Dave hinted that even though Strickland surprisingly earned the belt, he might settle into a gatekeeper position for younger fighters:
“People want Strickland to fight like he’s 29 and one, but he’s not. He’s 29 and seven. He became champion, which is already more than people expected.” — Dave Simon (paraphrased summary)
AJ mostly agreed, praising Strickland’s grit but pointing out that he’s probably reached his peak. Meanwhile, Du Plessis’s victory launches him to another level in the middleweight division.
Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev: Could It Happen Soon?
Dricus Du Plessis has captured everyone’s attention. Fans and experts are talking about a potential collision with Khamzat Chimaev. Dave and AJ laid out how both men might match up if they share the Octagon:
- Dricus Du Plessis:
Big frame, awkward angles, unpredictable striking, surprising cardio, and a proven track record of finishing elite opponents. - Khamzat Chimaev:
He has fierce takedowns, lightning-fast submission attempts, and a knack for dominating opponents early, but he tends to slow down if he doesn’t get the finish in the first or second round.
High Stakes for Both Sides
Dave stated that Du Plessis’s strong form makes him a real challenge:
“Dricus looks dead tired sometimes and then lands a shot that just flattens you. He’s weird strong.” — Dave Simon (paraphrased summary)
He also pointed out that Chimaev’s best plan is to wrestle quickly and go for a choke or ground-and-pound. But Du Plessis is a large middleweight who might stifle those initial grappling attempts:
“If Khamzat takes you down and finds your back, he’s gonna squeeze your face off. The question is, can he do that to Du Plessis?” — Dave Simon (paraphrased summary)
AJ focused on the cardio edge, explaining that Chimaev goes hard early:
“He’s a sprinter. Khamzat comes out and tries to finish quickly. If Du Plessis stays calm and drags it out, it gets interesting.” — AJ D’Alesio
Many see Chimaev as unstoppable, but Du Plessis might have the power to end the hype. Fans of big middleweight showdowns would flock to this fight, and the hosts seemed enthusiastic about the style clash.
Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria: Featherweight Champ Moving Up?
A hot rumor in MMA circles is a potential super fight involving current lightweight king Islam Makhachev and featherweight titleholder Ilia Topuria. Dave said the chatter suggests Topuria might jump to 155 pounds instead of sticking around to rematch Alexander Volkanovski. He framed it as a risk-free approach for Topuria if he wants huge paydays and new storylines:
“People are putting two and two together. Islam wants a fresh challenge, and Topuria keeps talking about 155. That’s a money fight right there.” — Dave Simon (paraphrased summary)
AJ said it might be best to go all-in on that matchup without letting either man risk a loss in a separate bout:
“Just throw him in there. Don’t lose any hype.” — AJ D’Alesio
Topuria’s Rapid Rise
Topuria stands out for crisp striking, lightning-fast submissions and the ability to stay composed in big moments. He also has a fearless attitude about tackling MMA’s scariest fighters. This contrasts well with Makhachev’s suffocating wrestling and top control.
Lightweight Division Buzz
With Charles Oliveira, Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Beneil Dariush lurking, many wondered who might challenge Islam next. Topuria could inject fresh excitement into a division that loves new blood, especially if Volkanovski moves on or takes another fight. Dave and AJ see plenty of reasons the UFC might pull the trigger on Makhachev vs. Topuria in 2025, possibly abroad, to draw a massive crowd.
UFC Fight Night 251: Cannonier vs. Rodrigues Preview
UFC Fight Night 251 features a middleweight tilt between Jared Cannonier, a former title challenger, and Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues. The event goes down on February 15, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
Main Event: Jared Cannonier vs. Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues
“That’s a fun fight, yeah. I like Robocop, and Cannonier is always exciting.” — AJ D’Alesio
Both hosts broke down the pros and cons for each fighter:
- Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues (32 years old)
- Has won five of his last six in the UFC.
- Known for his power, ground skills, and willingness to brawl.
- Aims to break into the upper echelon of the middleweight division.
- Jared Cannonier (40 years old)
- Holds notable wins over Marvin Vettori, Sean Strickland, Anderson Silva, and Kelvin Gastelum.
- Packs legitimate knockout power.
- Has been up and down recently but is always one shot away from a finish.
AJ acknowledged Cannonier’s track record but questioned his pace at age 40:
“He’s 41 soon, and there’s a lot of wear and tear. If he can’t handle Robocop’s aggression, it’ll be a tough night.” — AJ D’Alesio (paraphrased summary)
Dave leans toward Rodrigues, pointing out his youth and momentum:
“I think Robocop does it. He’s got the power, the looks, the momentum. Cannonier’s on a losing streak. Robocop’s won three in a row. He’s looking good.” — Dave Simon
Still, nobody is counting Cannonier out. It could change the entire fight if he lands something big in the first or second round.
Co-Main Event: Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal
Another veteran-versus-contender setup appears when Calvin Kattar meets Youssef Zalal at featherweight.
- Calvin Kattar (36 years old)
- Has fought top names like Dan Ige, Giga Chikadze, Jeremy Stephens, and Aljamain Sterling.
- Riding a tough three-fight skid.
- Known for solid boxing and grit.
- Youssef Zalal (28 years old)
- On a five-fight win streak, including three submission wins in the UFC.
- Aims to break through against an established name.
- Sees Kattar as a stepping stone into bigger fights.
Dave thinks Kattar’s experience could lead to a decision win if he avoids Zalal’s ground game:
“Kattar doesn’t usually get finished. I could see him outpointing Zalal if it goes three rounds.” — Dave Simon (paraphrased summary)
AJ likes Zalal’s momentum but admitted Kattar could surprise if it remains standing. While many oddsmakers favour Zalal, the co-main has upset potential if Kattar fights smart and paces himself.
Other Fights on the Card
A few more matchups on UFC Fight Night 251 stand out:
- Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Dylan Budka
- Shahbazyan once looked like a can’t-miss star. He’s eager to show he’s still a danger after some setbacks.
- Budka’s lesser-known but could make a name for himself with an upset.
- Ismael Bonfim vs. Nazim Sadykhov
- One of the Bonfim brothers is always intriguing. Ismael brings dynamic striking and finishing ability.
- Sadykhov is 9-1-1 overall, undefeated in three UFC bouts, looking to keep climbing.
- Gabriel Bonfim vs. Khaos Williams
- Another Bonfim brother on the same card. He’s matched with the hard-hitting Williams, known for surprise knockouts.
- Grappling might be Gabriel’s path, while Khaos banks on fight-ending punches.
Betting Picks and Parlay Ideas
Dave and AJ each offered parlay suggestions, highlighting a few favourites and underdogs they like:
Dave’s Parlay
- Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues
- Calvin Kattar (Underdog)
Dave noted that combining Robocop (a moderate favourite) with underdog Kattar could result in a substantial payout:
“Kattar’s an underdog. If he and Robocop both win, the return is pretty sweet.” — Dave Simon
AJ’s Parlay
- Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues
- Youssef Zalal
- Edmen Shahbazyan
- Nazim Sadykhov
AJ opted for a bigger lineup, leaning on both rising prospects and some proven names. He mentioned that Robocop likely finishes Cannonier, Zalal might grind out a decision, Shahbazyan could shine again, and Sadykhov might edge Bonfim.
For anyone looking to put money on the card, both guys reminded viewers to pick smartly, watch weigh-ins, and consider each fighter’s momentum.
Key Takeaways
- Strickland’s Future Is Unclear
He lost to Dricus Du Plessis and faced criticism from his own coach. Some suggest he’s peaked, while others still see him as an elite gatekeeper. - Dricus Du Plessis Looks Scary
He overpowered Strickland, showcasing improved striking and stamina. Fans want to see a potential fight with Khamzat Chimaev, which Dave and AJ believe could be a true test for both men. - Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria Rumours
There’s buzz about Topuria moving up from featherweight to challenge the lightweight king, Islam Makhachev. AJ believes it would be a top-tier showdown for 2025. - UFC Fight Night 251 Boasts Fun Middleweight and Featherweight Bouts
Jared Cannonier and Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues headline at middleweight. Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal adds an interesting co-main event, featuring a hungry prospect meeting a battle-tested veteran. - Parlay Picks and Potential Surprises
Dave is going with Kattar and Rodrigues, while AJ includes multiple fights in his slip. Underdogs like Kattar could spice up the card.
Conclusion
Fans who enjoy the ebb and flow of championship storylines and the emergence of new UFC talents have plenty to watch. Dricus Du Plessis has taken over the middleweight division by storm, opening the door to matchups with names like Khamzat Chimaev. Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev’s hunt for fresh competition might lead him to featherweight star Ilia Topuria. There’s no shortage of excitement at the top levels of both divisions.
UFC Fight Night 251: Cannonier vs. Rodrigues sets the stage for many intriguing moments. Jared Cannonier hopes to prove he’s still an elite force, while Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues aims to announce his arrival among top contenders. Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal and a few other fights will give fans competitive action, upsets, and more highlight-reel moments.
If you like breakdowns like these and want to hear the back-and-forth live, check out the Ringside Report MMA show on YouTube, Rumble, Twitch, or Kick. You can also tune in to the audio podcast version on your favourite streaming platform. Interact with Dave Simon, Fred Garcia, and AJ D’Alesio, as well as the audience, for more live picks, instant reactions, and entertaining banter.
