Dricus du Plessis captured the UFC's middleweight crown with a split-decision win over Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 297.

The win punctuated a 6-0 start to his UFC career and a rapid ascension to the title. It's only been a little over three years since the South African made his debut in the organization. Now he's at the top of his division.

For Strickland, it's a major setback. After pulling off a stunning upset against Israel Adesanya to win the belt, he came up short in his quest to defend it and further legitimize his role as champion.