UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis is keen to step back into the octagon, and it appears his next opponent will be Khamzat Chimaev.
Speaking on The Sias du Plessis Show, the champion revealed that he and Chimaev have verbally agreed to a fight, with discussions involving two potential dates. Du Plessis indicated that the bout is expected to take place no later than September.
Du Plessis confirmed, “So we have a date… But we have potential of two dates. I already agreed to both.” He dismissed recent injury rumors, stating, “All these rumors that came out with injuries, I don’t know where it came from, it was ridiculous.” He assured that the fight is “100 percent” happening this year and is “not far away,” adding that he and the UFC reached an agreement on a date “a while ago” and an official announcement is anticipated soon.
He further stated, “So I’m just waiting for the contract, but that’s the fight that’s happening.” Du Plessis estimated the fight would occur “in the next couple of months, maximum four months,” emphasizing his eagerness: “Nothing is signed, but I’ve already agreed to any date. Any date that they gave me, I said, ‘Cool. Ready. Let’s do it.’”
Du Plessis recently dismissed social media rumors suggesting he would miss the rest of 2025 due to injury. He is coming off a unanimous decision victory over rival Sean Strickland in February at UFC 312. That win marked his second successful title defense and improved his undefeated UFC record to 9-0.
Should Chimaev be confirmed as the challenger, Du Plessis expressed readiness to counter his renowned wrestling skills, just as he has dealt with the elite abilities of past opponents.
Acknowledging Chimaev`s grappling, Du Plessis said, “His wrestling is world class… It’s phenomenal.” However, he put it into perspective, comparing it to previous opponents: “But so is Israel Adesanya’s striking, right? So is Sean Strickland’s boxing. World class.” He stressed the difference between individual disciplines and mixed martial arts: “This is not striking, this is not wrestling, this is not grappling, this is MMA.” While recognizing Chimaev`s wrestling prowess, he stated his ultimate goal is proving his legacy, not just countering one skill.
He added, “Because yes, I know his wrestling is great, it is, 100 percent… but you’re only as good as your opponent lets you and I won’t let you look good. I can let you look good, but I can’t let you win, unfortunately.”
Du Plessis`s unconventional fighting style has often faced criticism, yet his results are undeniable. Undefeated in the octagon, he boasts a 9-0 record with six finishes, including a submission win over Israel Adesanya and a knockout of Robert Whittaker.
Overcoming Chimaev`s formidable reputation presents the next major hurdle for Du Plessis, assuming Chimaev makes it to the fight. Chimaev has struggled with periods of inactivity, having competed only four times in the last three years.
Fortunately for Du Plessis, the potential for an opponent change doesn`t concern him; his focus remains on being ready to defend his belt.
Addressing the possibility of a Chimaev withdrawal, Du Plessis stated, “Those are the kinds of forces that don’t bother me because I try not to be concerned about things that I have no control over.” He added confidence in the promotion`s ability to adapt: “The UFC always finds a plan.” He concluded by reiterating his philosophy: “Like I said, I don’t prepare for Khamzat. I prepare to be the best Dricus. So after that, if he pulls out fight week, UFC will get somebody else… and whoever they put in there, I’ll be ready for it.”
Marcus Blakely