Dricus du Plessis is set to make a splash again in the UFC as he prepares for an anticipated title defense against Khamzat Chimaev. The reigning UFC middleweight champion recently confirmed on The Sias du Plessis Show that he and Chimaev have verbally agreed to a bout, with the fight likely occurring no later than September 2024. Du Plessis emphasized that both fighters are ready, stating, “We have a date. The announcement will be made soon. A lot of rumors around injuries are just false. I’ve already agreed to a date.”
Du Plessis, who boasts an impressive 9-0 record in the UFC, including two consecutive title defenses, is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312 in February. This win solidifies his position as a top contender in the middleweight division. Despite uncertainties swirling in social media around his health, du Plessis has firmly dismissed these rumors, affirming, “I’m just waiting for the contract. Any date they give me, I said, ‘Cool. Ready. Let’s do it.’”
As he eagerly eyes a matchup against Chimaev, du Plessis is keenly aware of the challenges that Chimaev’s elite wrestling presents. He respects Chimaev's grappling but plans to implement his own strategies to counter it, stating, “His wrestling is world-class. But this is MMA, and I will do whatever it takes to defend my title and prove I am the greatest of all-time.” Du Plessis understands that success in mixed martial arts comes from nullifying an opponent’s strengths, maintaining, “You’re only as good as your opponent lets you be, and I won’t let you look good.”
Critics have often pointed to du Plessis' unusual fighting style, yet the outcomes speak for themselves. He has showcased his ability to finish fights, with six of his nine wins coming by way of finish, including a notable submission victory over Israel Adesanya and a knockout against Robert Whittaker. Du Plessis is determined to unravel Chimaev’s mystique and aims to build on his undefeated record.
Chimaev’s activity has been a concern, as he has only fought four times in the past three years, leading some to speculate about the viability of the matchup. Nevertheless, du Plessis remains unfazed by the possibility of Chimaev withdrawing from the fight. He notes, “I try not to be concerned about things I can’t control. The UFC will always find a plan. Whether it’s Khamzat or someone else, I prepare to be the best Dricus.”
This upcoming title defense could mark another significant moment in du Plessis’ career as he aims to continue his dominance in the UFC middleweight division. Fans eagerly await the official announcement of the fight as du Plessis gears up for what promises to be an exciting bout. His confidence and readiness signal that he is prepared to face any challenge that comes his way, reinforcing his determination to retain the middleweight championship title.
