Dricus Du Plessis has emerged as a formidable presence in the UFC, boasting an impressive record of 23 wins and only 2 losses, with a remarkable undefeated streak of 9 fights in the promotion. Recently, his aspirations have reached new heights, as he sets his sights on a monumental champion vs. champion clash with the current light heavyweight titleholder, Alex Pereira. However, Du Plessis is methodical in his approach and insists that he must first solidify his standing in the middleweight division before contemplating this high-stakes super fight.
At the UFC 312 post-fight press conference, where Du Plessis celebrated his successful title defense against Sean Strickland, he expressed admiration for Pereira’s rapid rise and skill set. The South African fighter recognizes Pereira as perhaps the “pound-for-pound best,” which speaks volumes about the Brazilian’s prowess in the Octagon. This level of respect underpins Du Plessis’s desire to face Pereira one day; he acknowledges the challenges that come with competing at higher weight classes, especially against a seasoned competitor like Pereira, who has transitioned from kickboxing to MMA with exceptional success.
Despite his ambitions, Du Plessis is not looking to leapfrog crucial steps in his career. His immediate focus is on Khamzat Chimaev, an undefeated fighter regarded by many as the unofficial middleweight champion. Du Plessis emphasizes the importance of first proving himself against Chimaev to remove all doubt about his status in the middleweight category. This strategic decision highlights his desire to cement his legacy and be recognized as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the division—a sentiment he respects continues to involve legendary figures like Anderson Silva and Israel Adesanya.
Du Plessis’ philosophy is rooted in quality over quantity when it comes to title defenses. He understands that the legacy of a champion is not merely defined by the number of successful defenses but more significantly by the caliber of opponents faced and the context of those battles. With a keen understanding of the sport’s nuances, he aims to embrace challenges that would enhance his legacy and establish a clear narrative of his reign in the middleweight division.
While Du Plessis is eager to challenge Alex Pereira and smash expectations at light heavyweight, he approaches this ambition with the patience of a calculated strategist. The upcoming showdown with Khamzat Chimaev represents not just an opportunity to validate his skills but also a keen step towards fulfilling his ultimate goal of unifying his legacy across weight classes. This disciplined approach sets Du Plessis apart as he navigates the competitive waters of the UFC, emphasizing respect for the sport while simultaneously asserting his ambition to make an indelible mark in its history.