Dricus du Plessis Addresses Injury Speculation

UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis is setting the record straight regarding his health and plans for his next bout.

Recent speculation circulated this week concerning a possible injury to the champion. This led potential title contenders, including Khamzat Chimaev and Caio Borralho, to call out du Plessis, suggesting he might not be ready to defend his belt. Du Plessis directly responded to these rumors through a statement shared on social media Thursday.

In his statement, du Plessis dismissed the injury talk, specifically rumors of a shin break, finding them “very entertaining” but confirming they are “unfortunately none of it is true.” He stated that he and the UFC have already discussed the date and opponent for his next fight. He clarified that any talk of a June fight was never based on a signed agreement and that he has not withdrawn from any planned fight. Du Plessis also asserted his position as champion, saying, “I am the champion I know when I fight you as a contender just show up when we tell you to.” He concluded his statement by teasing, “Fight announcement coming soon stay tuned.”

While the South African fighter did not provide a specific timeline for either the fight announcement or the actual event, his comments indicate his intention to defend his title again in 2025.

The reigning champion captured the belt by defeating Sean Strickland via unanimous decision earlier this year. Du Plessis holds an impressive professional record of 23 wins and only 2 losses, maintaining a perfect 9-0 record since joining the UFC.

Looking ahead, the next challenger for du Plessis will likely be either the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev or Caio Borralho. Chimaev boasts a pristine 14-0 professional record with a high finishing rate, while Borralho is currently on a 17-fight unbeaten streak, including a dominant 7-0 run within the UFC.