The world is questioning whether the terrifying prowess showcased by the middleweight contender is indeed championship-worthy. Despite being constantly underestimated and going against all predictions in his nine-fight UFC streak, Dricus du Plessis has consistently come out on top. However, he would likely be the underdog against the undefeated sensation, Khamzat Chimaev. After du Plessis’ clear-cut victory against Sean Strickland in his second successful title defense at UFC 312, he anticipates a face-off with Chimaev next.
Although there are no specific plans for the imminent title clash, du Plessis expressed his opinion favouring a potential date during the International Fight Week in July. Currently on holiday, du Plessis is mulling over the next steps regarding his upcoming fights.
The reigning champ clarified that while Chimaev’s intimidating demeanor might affect some fighters, he is not one of them. He brought up instances from previous fights mentioning situations such as Kamaru Usman’s brilliant performance against Khamzat on only 10 days’ notice, and Gilbert Burns’ defiance to intimidation. Du Plessis believes that elite fighters like Burns, Usman, and Robert Whitaker aren’t fazed by ostentatious displays of power and aggression.
Du Plessis emphasized that he isn’t persuaded by the hype surrounding Chimaev, which he views as an overblown façade. He praised fighters like Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman, pointing out that they demonstrated their resilience against Chimaev’s posturing.
In touching upon the fights involving Burns and Usman, the champ expressed notable observations. He mentioned how smaller fighters like them confronted and contended with Chimaev, demonstrating their inherent grit and determination. Du Plessis debunked the mythical aura around Chimaev, asserting that at their level, no one could afford to be intimidated.
Du Plessis expressed doubts about Chimaev’s dominance extending into championship rounds. He firmly intends to exploit this perceived vulnerability in Chimaev’s strategy.
Du Plessis highlighted his relentless pursuit and ambition to prevail, stating that his approach won’t change round by round. He revealed his perception of Chimaev as merely an opponent rather than the widely portrayed boogeyman.
The champ further elaborated that he is driven by his aspiration of enhancing his legacy. He perceives this potential bout as an opportunity to refine his legacy and is undeterred by the monstrous image of Chimaev.
It is notable that Chimaev’s overall activity and performance have significantly declined since his sensational entry into UFC in 2020. Due to health issues, injuries, and other obstacles, Chimaev’s rise to UFC supremacy hasn’t been as rapid as many had initially projected.
According to du Plessis, Chimaev should be ready to compete in the United States soon. However, when they face off, du Plessis insists on having solid assurances that the bout will indeed occur.
Du Plessis is well aware that if he becomes the first to defeat Chimaev, his standing within the middleweight division would reach historic heights.
Coming off his second win over Strickland, du Plessis now equates with Chris Weidman for the third-longest victory run in the history of the division, four wins away from matching Anderson Silva’s revered record of 13. Acknowledging the significance of nine successive wins, du Plessis remains indifferent until he surpasses all.
Being well acknowledged of the size of the task ahead, du Plessis sees the comparison to Anderson Silva, his hero, as an inspiration rather than an intimidation. Unwaveringly, du Plessis believes in his potential to fulfil these great expectations.
Even with the looming challenge of surpassing the feats of a legend like Anderson Silva, du Plessis exudes confidence. He affirmed that he has never doubted his ability to step up and make his mark in the grand scheme of his fighting career.
For Du Plessis, it’s about being the absolute best. He strives toward leaving behind a legacy as the greatest fighter who ever stepped foot in the octagon.
And as he gears up for his potential bout with Chimaev, the only thought on his mind is the opportunity to enhance his legacy. Du Plessis’ mindset towards this fight isn’t rooted in fear but the relentless pursuit of greatness in the ring.