At UFC 319, Dricus Du Plessis will defend his title for the second time against Khamzat Chimaev, a matchup drawing substantial attention given both fighters’ elite status. The South African champion recently returned to the press conference stage, heightening expectations for the event. In his latest remarks, Du Plessis emphasized he expects respect from Chimaev but remains prepared to respond firmly if provoked during their interactions.
Du Plessis believes Chimaev might have adopted a calmer demeanor leading up to this encounter. He expressed hope that their upcoming press meeting will remain focused on the fight itself, free from personal hostility. Nevertheless, Du Plessis made it clear he will not hesitate to reciprocate any antagonism. He described himself as generally easygoing but willing to match aggression if confronted.
“With Khamzat it seems like he has turned a new page in his life. So, maybe it will all be respectful and be just about the fight. If he’s gonna come at me, I’ll be ready. I’ll match the energy as always. I am chill until you’re not.”
—Dricus Du Plessis, UFC Welterweight Champion
The Fighter’s Reputation for Fierce Verbal Exchanges
In the past, Dricus Du Plessis has demonstrated a fierce and unapologetic presence at press conferences, notably provoking reactions from prominent fighters like Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. His outspoken style often borders on ruthless, making him a difficult opponent to face verbally. This sharp-edged aspect of Du Plessis adds tension to his prospective interactions with Chimaev, should any verbal sparring occur.
Tom Aspinall Considers Du Plessis Nearly Unbeatable in the Octagon
UFC heavyweight contender Tom Aspinall has spoken highly of Du Plessis’s abilities, both physical and mental. He noted that each time he watches the South African fighter compete, Du Plessis appears increasingly unpredictable and resilient. According to Aspinall, Du Plessis seems to have reached a level in his UFC career where a loss feels unlikely, underscoring his dominance within the welterweight division.
Regardless of his opponent, Du Plessis consistently adapts during fights and emerges victorious. This upcoming bout against Chimaev is expected to be his most challenging test yet, given Chimaev’s rising prominence and skillset.
Khamzat Chimaev Focuses on Cardio to Match Du Plessis’s Pace
Khamzat Chimaev has been pushing his limits in training, specifically targeting his cardiovascular conditioning to ensure he can withstand Du Plessis’s high pace. With both fighters at the top of their game, conditioning could prove decisive in their encounter. Chimaev’s efforts to enhance his endurance demonstrate his awareness of the challenge posed by the South African champion.
This fight carries significant implications for both athletes’ trajectories, with Du Plessis aiming to solidify his status as dominant champion and Chimaev seeking to establish himself firmly among the division’s elite. Their meeting at UFC 319 will reveal much about their respective paths ahead, shaping the competitive landscape of the sport.