Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis Brawl In Stands at UFC 296

A month ahead of their title bout, Sean Strickland attacked Dricus Du Plessis in the crowd at UFC 296

UFC 297 is a month away, but there was a preview on Saturday night at UFC 296.

In an altercation that is bound to increase interest for UFC 297, Strickland jumped off a chair to attack Du Plessis, who quickly fought back. Security separated the two men.

The full incident between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis at #UFC296 tonight.

Bring on #UFC297 in January! pic.twitter.com/HQt0Uj1jiv

— UFC (@ufc) December 17, 2023

This took place in the moments following the Paddy Pimblett-Tony Ferguson bout. The camera showed Sean Strickland standing two rows in front of Dricus Du Plessis, and the brawl started shortly after. UFC play-by-play announcer Jon Anik mentioned that there was footage, which would be shown later in the broadcast. In a clear marketing move, that is exactly what happened.

After the UFC 296 main event unfolded and the focus now shifts to the next pay-per-view, the footage was shown.

Dana White: What kind of an asshole seats Strickland next to Du Plessis? This asshole.#UFC296 #UFC pic.twitter.com/KMnTaqNg2f

— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) December 17, 2023

I go hard on everyone I know this, izzy mouth feeding his dog, Dricus kissing his coach and grabbing his cup. Omally talking about sharing his wife in a podcast.

You're a man, on a world stage doing this in public

And what do you pick?

"You got abused as a kid ha"

— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) December 17, 2023

Now I understand why you have a 33% finish rate, you hit like a girl, also 20 January the security won’t be there to save your life when I’m on top. 🤣🤣🤣 #rentfree

— Dricus Du Plessis (@dricusduplessis) December 17, 2023

Strickland defends the middleweight championship against Du Plessis next month on January 20.