Is the Specialized Status 2 170 the right bike for me?

I'm new to MTB, and looking to upgrade from a Specialized Rockhopper.

I'm wondering if there's any alternatives to the Specialized Status 2 170 for me?

I currently ride enduro discipline dirt bikes and the thought of MTB was yo do some cross training and exercise. Looking to get into enduro/trail riding with the odd trip to a bike park (there aren't many around, looking at 4 hour drive, so bike park isn't the main focus, but is a consideration).

The idea is to get as close to a dirt bike as possible, so long travel and mullet configuration.

Budget $4500 CAD (Status 2 170 is currently 3500).

Must have criteria:

-metal frame, absolutely no carbon frame please

-front and rear suspension with lock out/equivalent

-mullet, or mullet friendly geometry (flip chip with new wheel factored into budget)

-~12 speed, will be pedaling most climbs

-thru axels

-disc brakes

Pros of Status 2 170:

-meets criteria

-coil rear suspension (not a MUST have but a VERY strong want, love the spring suspension on dirtbikes)

-"budget friendly"

-already a mullet

Cons of Status 2 170:

-Front fork is rhythm, which is probably an okay compromise.

Other bike I've found:

Devinci Chainsaw Deor 12s – shout out to being canadian, but blows budget making it a mullet, no coil suspension.