The UFC is gearing up for an electrifying return to Australia, with UFC 312 set to take over Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena this weekend. Headlining the event is a high-stakes middleweight title showdown, as reigning champion Dricus du Plessis faces former champion Sean Strickland in a highly anticipated rematch.

While the main event commands attention, the co-main bout is just as thrilling. Strawweight champion Zhang Weili will defend her 115lbs strap against the undefeated Tatiana Suarez in a matchup that has fans buzzing. Both fighters bring an explosive style to the Octagon, making this a must-watch clash. With the championship showdown set for February 8, the question remains—who will emerge victorious? Let’s dive into the key factors that could determine the outcome of this strawweight title fight.

Zhang Weili vs. Tatiana Suarez record & stats comparison

Zhang Weili, a two-time UFC strawweight champion and the first Chinese woman to claim UFC gold, has been a dominant force in MMA for over a decade. Over the years, she has left her mark in every promotion she has competed in, including Kunlun Fight (KLF), where she held the strawweight championship. Rising from the regional circuit to the UFC, ‘Magnum’ has built an impressive 25-3-0 record, consistently dismantling opponents with her exceptional kickboxing skills. Standing 5’4″, she is a relentless and versatile fighter, known for her power, speed, and ability to adapt inside the Octagon.

On the other hand, Tatiana Suarez enters this matchup with a contrasting yet equally formidable skill set. At 5’5″, she comes from an elite wrestling background, boasting multiple world championships and Pan-American titles. A lifelong grappler, she has seamlessly transitioned into MMA, maintaining a perfect 11-0-0 record in the UFC, with most of her victories coming by submission. The American made her way into the promotion through TUF 23, where she won the strawweight tournament in 2016, immediately showcasing her relentless grappling skills.

However, her journey to this moment has not been without challenges. Over the years, she endured two extended hiatuses—one nearly two years long and another lasting three and a half years due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, Suarez made a powerful statement in 2023 with a triumphant comeback, securing a guillotine choke victory and proving that she remains a formidable force in the division.

With both fighters now at the peak of their abilities, this highly anticipated showdown presents an intriguing clash of styles. Zhang Weili’s striking prowess and explosive power will be tested against Tatiana Suarez’s relentless grappling and submission game. As the two prepare to collide, this matchup is shaping up to be “an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object.” So, who will prevail when they finally step into the Octagon? Let’s dive into the predictions.

Weili vs. Suarez UFC 312 prediction

As UFC 312 approaches, the highly anticipated co-main event between Zhang Weili and Tatiana Suarez has oddsmakers leaning toward The American, despite her extended absence from competition. Meanwhile, the Chinese juggernaut has been in dominant form, stringing together back-to-back impressive performances that have cemented her right at the top at 115lbs.

On the other hand, while Suarez’s most recent victory over Jessica Andrade at UFC Fight Night last August was secured via guillotine choke, it left some critics unconvinced. Nevertheless, her resume speaks for itself. Wins over former champions like Alexa Grasso and Carla Esparza highlight her elite grappling and ability to control high-level opponents, making her a formidable challenger.

However, one lingering question remains: Will her long layoff impact her performance against Zhang Weili, who has been at the peak of her game? With two successful title defenses under her belt, ‘Magnum’ has consistently proven herself to be a dominant and well-rounded champion. Now, the stage is set for a classic striker-versus-wrestler showdown.

Can Tatiana Suarez’s relentless grappling and undefeated record carry her to UFC gold, or will Weili’s experience and striking prowess keep the belt around her waist? As the fight draws near, all eyes will be on the Octagon. Who do you see emerging victorious in this battle of elite contenders at UFC 312? Share your predictions below!