Dana White and the UFC likely enjoyed their most successful year yet, with record-breaking live gates and unforgettable moments inside the Octagon. Fighters showcased incredible heart and skill, leaving fans across the MMA world captivated. Now, as 2025 approaches, the excitement is building for another action-packed year of fights. The first event of the year, UFC 311, has already garnered significant attention thanks to its stellar fight card. Adding to the anticipation, another Fight Night event is set for March 1 and it promises to be a thriller.

This card promises to feature a mix of rising contenders and seasoned veterans, delivering matchups with significant implications for various divisions. While the full lineup has yet to be officially revealed, it will prove vital for the remaining cards in 2025. One of the bouts generating buzz was revealed by MMA insider Benny P, who tweeted, “Steve Erceg vs Asu Almabayev set for March 1st had heard about this match up and it not being on UFC 312 but was hoping they’d change their mind because 312 is already so weak.”

While UFC 311 is turning out to be a generation-defining card, the same cannot be said for its successor- UFC 312. The February 9 PPV card is slated to feature Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland in the main event for the 185lbs gold. However, it isn’t setting the world on fire like some of the recent PPV cards offered by the promotion. The same emotion was echoed by the MMA community around the world. Let’s see what they had to say.

Fans express concern about the weak lineup for UFC 312

A highly anticipated flyweight clash between Steve Erceg and Asu Almabayev is set for the Fight Night event on March 1, as both fighters aim to climb the UFC rankings. Erceg, a former title challenger, has impressed fans with his well-rounded skill set and relentless approach in the cage. Opposite him stands Kazakhstan’s Asu Almabayev, known for his dominant performances and grappling-heavy style. While the matchup has plenty of potential, some fans feel it would be better suited for UFC 312 rather than the March 1 card.

One user voiced disappointment about the absence of big-name fighters on UFC 312, commenting, “Likely no Steve, Volk, JDM, KKF or Hooker on 312 is cooked.” Fans are calling for the UFC to bolster the card with intriguing matchups to make the PPV card more exciting. Another user shared their hope for high-profile additions, commenting, “Surely they make Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates or Diego Lopes vs Movsar for 312 because it needs those fight bad.”

Without marquee fighters, UFC 312 risks being perceived as lackluster. Fans have expressed concerns, with one user stating, “Surely they have a couple of main card-worthy fights in mind for 312 otherwise this is absurd.” The uncertainty around the event has left some fans worried that it may not meet expectations. Another user commented, “But are they adding anything good for 312?”

One fan suggested that the Erceg vs. Almabayev bout could strengthen UFC 312’s lineup, saying, “Surely they move this to 312.” Others offered potential matchups to improve the card, with one user commenting, “No JDM? Maybe they add Fiziev-Gamrot 2.” The absence of stars like Steve Erceg, Alexander Volkanovski, Jack Della Maddalena, Kai Kara-France and Dan Hooker has left fans questioning the card’s appeal.

One fan summed up their concerns, writing, “Damn, 312 is gonna be rough at this rate. No erceg, no volk, no JDM, no Bobby, No Izzy. Is KKF gonna be fighting on there at least?”Fans remain hopeful that the UFC will address these gaps by adding high-profile bouts or rescheduling fights to elevate the Sydney PPV card.

As anticipation builds, the promotion faces the challenge of delivering an event that lives up to its standard. What changes do you think Dana White should make to enhance UFC 312? Let us know in the comments below!