Dricus Du Plessis, the rising star in mixed martial arts (MMA), is generating considerable buzz with his ambitions of a super fight against current light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. With an impressive record of 23-2 in MMA and a perfect 9-0 in the UFC, Du Plessis is understandably eager to elevate his status within the sport. However, before he can set his sights on Pereira, Du Plessis is focused on solidifying his dominance in the middleweight division, which will serve as a crucial stepping stone for his aspirations.
In the aftermath of his recent victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312, Du Plessis expressed a strong desire to establish himself as the unequivocal best in his weight class. This desire is not simply motivated by personal ambition; rather, it reflects a deep respect for the sport’s history and its champions. Du Plessis’s acknowledgment of both Anderson Silva and Israel Adesanya as legends of the middleweight division shows not only his humility but also his understanding of what it means to be a true champion.
Respect Among Rivals
Du Plessis demonstrated commendable sportsmanship during the UFC 312 post-fight press conference. He praised Pereira as a formidable competitor, recognizing him as a top-tier fighter not just because of his title, but also due to his rapid rise in the UFC from another sport. This admiration is critical in the world of combat sports, where respect often shapes rivalries and builds anticipation for future bouts. However, it’s clear that Du Plessis is not merely looking to compete; he aims to dominate, citing his victory over Adesanya as evidence of his capability to defeat Pereira at light heavyweight.
Yet, he remains pragmatic. Before even considering a fight with Pereira, Du Plessis has set his sights on Khamzat Chimaev, who remains undefeated and is widely regarded as a significant obstacle within the division. By focusing on Chimaev, Du Plessis showcases a strategic approach—acknowledging that preserving his middleweight title and defeating formidable challengers are essential precursors to his intended move.
Defining Legacy
Du Plessis’s vision transcends mere victories; it is about legacy. In his words, establishing himself as the “GOAT” of the middleweight division is paramount before he transitions to 205 pounds. This perspective emphasizes quality over quantity—it’s not merely about defending a title multiple times, but about the caliber of opponents faced and the manner of victories achieved. By aiming to solidify his legacy, Du Plessis enhances the stakes of his career trajectory, making every fight count in the eyes of fans and critics alike.
While the prospect of a champion vs. champion bout against Alex Pereira tantalizes fans, Dricus Du Plessis remains grounded in his current reality. His path is clear: dominate the middleweights, establish an indisputable legacy, and then, and only then, set his sights on the light heavyweight championship. It is this combination of ambition, respect, and determination that will ultimately define Du Plessis’s career—an intriguing blend that promises a thrilling future in the octagon.