As Khamzat Chimaev prepares for his upcoming title fight against Dricus Du Plessis, much attention centers on Chimaev’s dominant wrestling style. Known for his ability to control opponents through relentless grappling, Chimaev has built a reputation for finishing fights using his wrestling prowess. Many expect that Du Plessis will face significant challenges handling Chimaev’s ground game during their matchup.
Despite this widespread belief, Du Plessis remains unfazed by the hype surrounding Chimaev’s wrestling. Speaking with Fox News, the middleweight champion emphasized that their contest is about mixed martial arts, not just grappling, saying,
“This is not grappling or wrestling. This is MMA… we’re not fighting for the wrestling title.”
—Dricus du Plessis, Middleweight Champion
Growing Anticipation for a High-Stakes Middleweight Title Bout
The fight between Du Plessis and Chimaev has attracted considerable attention from UFC fighters and fans alike, building excitement for what could become one of the year’s most significant clashes. Many analysts suggest that if the fight reaches the later rounds, Du Plessis could leverage his skills to win via decision. Conversely, some believe Chimaev must finish the fight early to secure victory.
Caio Borralho’s Take: Chimaev Favored But Du Plessis Remains a Threat
Among those weighing in on the fight is UFC competitor Caio Borralho, who admits he often doubts Du Plessis but acknowledges the champ’s consistent ability to prove him wrong. Borralho predicts a fast-paced fight and shared his thoughts in an interview with The Schmo:
“I always bet against DDP, but he always shuts my mouth,”
Borralho said.
“But this could be a fight as fast as the fight with Khamzat and Whittaker — like first or second round. 60% of me says Khamzat will finish this fight very fast, but 40% says that Dricus, with his size and weight, can survive the first two rounds — then the fight gets better for him.”
—Caio Borralho, UFC Competitor
Concerns Over Chimaev’s Endurance Could Influence the Outcome
Chimaev’s cardio remains a topic of debate, especially when considering a potential five-round battle. Should Du Plessis manage to endure Chimaev’s initial pressure and extend the fight into later rounds, the dynamic could shift in favor of the champion. This endurance factor introduces uncertainty about whether Chimaev can maintain his high-intensity wrestling throughout the full contest.
What This Fight Means for the UFC Middleweight Division
This upcoming title fight carries significant implications for the middleweight division’s future. A win for Chimaev might confirm his dominance in MMA wrestling, while a victory for Du Plessis could demonstrate the importance of a well-rounded approach beyond just grappling. The fight’s outcome could shape title dynamics and influence how fighters prepare for similar matchups moving forward.