Dricus Du Plessis has emerged as a formidable champion in the UFC’s middleweight division, showcasing not only his impressive fighting record of 23 wins and 2 losses, but also a relentless drive that has captivated the audience. His recent victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312 reinforced his status, as he defeated Strickland for the second time, solidifying his grip on the championship belt. The fight took place at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, and the outcome emphasized Du Plessis’s competitive edge in a field filled with talented fighters.
Du Plessis’s confidence is evident as he sets his sights on Khamzat Chimaev, another rising star with an impeccable record of 14–0. The anticipation surrounding this potential matchup is significant, with fans eager to see how Du Plessis’ grappling skills will fare against Chimaev’s striking prowess. The middleweight division is rife with competition, but Du Plessis seems undeterred, ready to assert his dominance further.
Expert Insights and Predictions
Former champion Henry Cejudo, known for his analytical approach to mixed martial arts, has weighed in on Du Plessis’s prospects against Chimaev and future challenges. On his “Pound 4 Pound” podcast with Kamaru Usman, Cejudo expressed faith in Du Plessis’s capabilities, suggesting that his mixed style of grappling and striking presents a unique challenge to opponents. Cejudo believes that Du Plessis’s wrestling background will be critical when facing fighters like Chimaev. Moreover, he opined that Du Plessis’s top-tier conditioning could set him apart in the octagon.
In Cejudo’s view, Du Plessis is not just another contender; he possesses the scrappy nature necessary to handle the pressures of high-stakes fights. Cejudo ranked Du Plessis’s cardio among the top three in the UFC, noting his ability to maintain energy levels even as the fight extends into the later rounds. His observation of Du Plessis’s stamina in past matchups points to a fighter who is not only physically capable but mentally prepared to push through adversity.
Facing New Challenges: The Light Heavyweight Division
Looking beyond his fight with Chimaev, Du Plessis has ambitions to challenge the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira. Pereira is slated to defend his title against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, and the outcome of this bout could shape Du Plessis’s trajectory. Cejudo believes that Du Plessis represents a challenging matchup for Pereira as well, highlighting the potential that lies in Du Plessis’s diverse skill set.
While both Pereira and Du Plessis have unique strengths, the potential for mixed fight styles creates excitement around their hypothetical matchup. The approach that Du Plessis may bring, combining his wrestling pedigree with effective striking, indicates that he can adapt well against any high-caliber opponent.
Dricus Du Plessis is at a critical juncture in his fighting career. The accolades of a champion come with heightened expectations and formidable opponents. His determination to rise through the ranks and possibly challenge for another title will keep spectators eagerly anticipating his next moves. Cejudo’s analysis only elevates the buzz surrounding him, as fans and commentators alike are eager to see how his skills will translate against top-tier competitors. The future looks bright for Du Plessis as he aims to carve out his legacy in the UFC, and supporters are undeniably excited for what’s next.