The Octagon is roaring in Toronto, Canada! UFC 297: Strickland vs Du Plessis arrives on January 20, 2024, promising fireworks as the middleweight title hangs in the balance. Two hungry contenders collide: the brash, outspoken champion Sean Strickland defends his gold against the surging South African striker Dricus du Plessis.
But whether you’re a die-hard MMA fan or a newcomer drawn to the buzz, knowing how to watch this epic clash can be tricky. Worry not, fight fans! This guide will be your compass, navigating the various channels and streaming options across the globe, ensuring you don’t miss a single punch.
The Main Event: A Clash of Styles and Personalities
Strickland, affectionately nicknamed “Tarzan”, is a volume striker known for his relentless pressure and unorthodox angles. He’s as comfortable taunting in the cage as he is throwing elbows.
Du Plessis, the “Stillknocks”, counters with elite kickboxing and devastating knockout power. His calm demeanor hides a predator’s instinct, waiting for the perfect moment to unleash his fury.
This stylistic clash promises a thrilling dance of aggression and precision, where one mistake could mean losing everything.
When and Where to Tune In:
Date: January 20, 2024 Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Canada
Start Times (Main Card):
- Eastern Time (ET): 10:00 PM
- Pacific Time (PT): 7:00 PM
- Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): 3:00 AM (January 21)
- Central European Time (CET): 4:00 AM (January 21)
- Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT): 3:00 PM (January 21)
- India Standard Time (IST): 1:30 PM (January 21)
Where to Watch:
United States:
- Pay-per-view: ESPN+ (Available through cable providers or standalone).
- Bars and Restaurants: Watch live at any participating establishment showcasing UFC events.
Canada:
- Pay-per-view: UFC Fight Pass (Available through cable providers or standalone).
- Bars and Restaurants: Similar to the US, many establishments show UFC events.
International:
- Check your local UFC Fight Pass website or app for regional channels and streaming options. Many countries, like the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand, also offer UFC pay-per-view directly through broadcasters like BT Sport, Fox Sports, and Sky Sports.
Beyond the Main Event
UFC 297 is much more than just the middleweight title fight. The co-main event features a battle for the vacant women’s bantamweight championship between veteran contender Raquel Pennington and Brazilian submission specialist Mayra Bueno Silva.
Additionally, a stacked preliminary card boasts exciting matchups like Arman Tsarukyan vs. Damir Ismagulov in the lightweight division and Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler in a lightweight grudge match.
Enhance Your Viewing Experience:
- Join the conversation: Follow #UFC297 on social media and engage with fight fans from around the world.
- Pre-fight shows: Tune in to UFC Fight Pass or your chosen broadcaster’s pre-fight coverage for expert analysis, fighter interviews, and predictions.
- Fantasy MMA: Put your knowledge to the test by participating in fantasy leagues and making your fight picks.
No matter where you are in the world, UFC 297 promises an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action. With this guide in hand, you’re all set to witness the battle between “Tarzan” and “Stillknocks”, the crowning of a new bantamweight champion, and a plethora of exhilarating prelim fights. So, grab your snacks, dim the lights, and get ready to roar with the Octagon!
