Kody Steele Set for High-Stakes UFC Debut Against…

Kody Steele Set for High-Stakes UFC Debut Against Rongzhu at UFC 312

In a move that has the MMA world buzzing, top prospect Kody Steele is set to make his highly anticipated UFC debut against the returning Rongzhu at UFC 312 on February 8, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. This lightweight matchup adds another layer of intrigue to an already stacked card at the Qudos Bank Arena.

Rising Star Meets Resurgent Veteran

Kody Steele, fresh off an impressive run on Dana White’s Contender Series, will face a baptism by fire in his first UFC outing. The American has been turning heads with his exceptional grappling skills and improving striking, making him one of the most talked-about prospects in recent memory. His journey to the UFC has been marked by dominant performances and a string of submission victories that have showcased his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prowess.

Kody Steele will fight Rongzhu at #UFC312 on February 8th. (first rep. @AlexBehunin) #UFC #MMA #UFCESPN #UFC2025 pic.twitter.com/rbvDut8q2S

— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) January 9, 2025

On the other side of the Octagon, Rongzhu returns to the UFC after a brief hiatus, looking to reassert himself in the lightweight division. The Chinese fighter has been honing his skills at the renowned City Kickboxing gym, suggesting we might see a new and improved version of the already formidable competitor. Rongzhu’s last UFC appearance saw him suffer a setback against Chris Padilla, but his overall potential and the work he’s put in since then make him a dangerous opponent for any newcomer.

High Stakes and Higher Expectations

This matchup is more than just a debut for Steele or a comeback for Rongzhu; it’s a litmus test for both fighters’ UFC futures. For Steele, it’s an opportunity to prove that the hype surrounding him is justified and that he belongs among the elite of the lightweight division. A win over a UFC veteran like Rongzhu would immediately establish him as a name to watch.

Rongzhu, meanwhile, is fighting not just for victory but for his UFC career. Having gone through the Road to UFC tournament and faced setbacks, this bout represents a crucial moment. A win over a highly-touted prospect like Steele could reignite his UFC journey and potentially set him up for bigger fights in the future.

The stylistic matchup between these two fighters promises an exciting contest. Steele’s grappling expertise will be put to the test against Rongzhu’s striking-heavy approach, refined further during his time at City Kickboxing. The question on everyone’s mind is whether Steele can implement his ground game against a more experienced UFC-level opponent, or if Rongzhu’s striking and takedown defense will prove too much for the newcomer.

UFC 312 Fight Card

This bout adds significant depth to the UFC 312 card, which is headlined by the middleweight title rematch between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland. The inclusion of Steele vs. Rongzhu on such a high-profile event speaks volumes about the UFC’s confidence in both fighters to deliver an entertaining scrap.