The UFC middleweight division is buzzing with excitement as champion Dricus Du Plessis has made a bold callout for his next title defense. In a stunning move, the South African fighter expressed his desire to face the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev instead of granting a rematch to former opponent Sean Strickland.
Champion’s Choice: Chimaev Over Strickland
Du Plessis, who claimed the 185-pound title in a hard-fought split decision victory over Strickland in January, believes that facing Chimaev is the fight the fans want to see. Despite UFC President Dana White previously indicating that a rematch with Strickland was in the works, Du Plessis is adamant about taking on the most significant challenge available.
“The conversations [have been] more about me fighting Strickland, but there was a very big reason no contracts have been signed,” Du Plessis revealed in an interview with ESPN. “If you ask what I want, I want to fight the best guy. I want to fight the guy the fans want me to fight. And that’s 100 percent Khamzat.”
– Dricus Du Plessis, UFC Middleweight Champion
Chimaev’s Dominant Performance
Chimaev’s stock skyrocketed after his impressive first-round submission victory over former title challenger Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi. The Chechen-born fighter’s relentless wrestling and ground control left no doubt about his status as a top contender in the middleweight division.
With an unblemished record of 14-0, Chimaev has been a force to be reckoned with since his UFC debut in 2020. His ability to dominate opponents across multiple weight classes has made him one of the most feared and respected fighters on the roster.
Strength vs. Strength
Du Plessis, known for his powerful striking and well-rounded skill set, is confident in his ability to match up against Chimaev’s wrestling prowess. The champion believes that his own physical strength and durability will be key factors in a potential showdown with the undefeated contender.
“When it comes to strength, there’s not a doubt in my mind [I’m stronger],” Du Plessis asserted. “Khamzat is a strong guy, but I don’t think—no, I know for a fact—that he’s never felt power like this. When it comes to his wrestling, obviously that’s his strong suit… Let’s meet strengths and see who can last.”
– Dricus Du Plessis on facing Khamzat Chimaev
Strickland’s Claim to the Title Shot
While Du Plessis has made his preferences clear, Sean Strickland remains adamant that he is next in line for a title shot. The American contender, who felt he was robbed on the judges’ scorecards in his first encounter with Du Plessis, took to social media to reinforce his stance.
“Understand one thing, I am next in line,” Strickland wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s been said, it’s been written. January [or] February, me and Dricus Du Plessis are scrapping.”
– Sean Strickland, UFC Middleweight Contender
The UFC’s Dilemma
The UFC now faces a difficult decision regarding the next middleweight title fight. On one hand, honoring the promised rematch with Strickland would maintain the integrity of the matchmaking process and give the former challenger a chance to prove himself after a controversial loss.
On the other hand, the allure of a champion vs. undefeated contender matchup between Du Plessis and Chimaev is hard to ignore. The potential for a historic clash between two of the division’s most talented and marketable fighters could generate unprecedented interest and pay-per-view revenue.
A New Era for the Middleweight Division
Regardless of the UFC’s decision, one thing is clear: the middleweight division is entering an exciting new era. With Du Plessis at the helm and a host of hungry contenders vying for their shot at the title, the 185-pound weight class is poised for a series of thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.
As fans eagerly await the announcement of the next middleweight title fight, the anticipation continues to build. Will Du Plessis get his wish to face Chimaev, or will Strickland’s claim to the rematch prevail? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the eyes of the MMA world will be fixated on the UFC’s decision and the explosive consequences that will follow.
