Dricus Du Plessis is preparing to defend his middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 with a fierce and proactive strategy. Known for his fast starts and dominant early finishes, Chimaev has built a reputation that puts pressure on opponents from the opening bell. However, Du Plessis intends to reverse this dynamic by actively hunting Chimaev from the start, adding an intense twist to their upcoming matchup.
Many MMA analysts and UFC stars view the middleweight champion’s unpredictable style as a potential advantage over Chimaev. While Chimaev sees this fight as a rare opportunity and is training rigorously, Du Plessis remains determined not simply to survive but to take control immediately. Speaking with the UFC, the South African champion said,
“I’m not going out there to survive anything. I’m going out there to hunt. I’m a hunter, I’m not a survivor. I’m going out there to flourish from the first second to the last. I’m there to win in the most spectacular fashion possible. Everybody knows Khamzat is the next best guy, but I know I’m the best.”
—Dricus Du Plessis, Middleweight Champion
Focus Remains Firmly on Middleweight Division
At 31 years old, Du Plessis has made it clear he has no intention of moving up to a higher weight class in the near future. He aims to defend his middleweight title at least three times before considering any change, determined to clear the division of rising contenders. This strategy reflects his confidence and desire to dominate his current weight class fully before thinking about any transitions.
Confidence Backed by Warnings from MMA Veterans
The clash with Khamzat Chimaev is viewed by many as Du Plessis’s most challenging fight yet. Even MMA legends such as Khabib Nurmagomedov have issued warnings about the threat posed by Du Plessis to Chimaev. Fans and analysts alike anticipate a thrilling contest, given both fighters’ strengths and contrasting styles.
Addressing Chimaev’s Wrestling and Cardio Preparations
Du Plessis has publicly downplayed the emphasis on Chimaev’s wrestling skills, asserting that UFC fights demand more than grappling alone. His coach has also vowed to match and counter Chimaev’s wrestling approach, highlighting their focus on a well-rounded game plan for UFC 319. Additionally, as the fight approaches, cardio conditioning has become a top priority for Du Plessis, preparing him to maintain pressure throughout the bout.
Anticipating the Impact of UFC 319
This upcoming showdown is significant for the middleweight division, with Du Plessis aiming to solidify his legacy by defeating one of the sport’s most dynamic challengers. His aggressive promise to hunt Chimaev from the start underscores his determination to remain champion and excite fans with a spectacular performance. The results of UFC 319 could heavily influence rankings and future title opportunities in the division.