Du Plessis Eyes Double Title Dream After Potential Chimaev Match

UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis has set his sights high after Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant first-round submission victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308. Following Chimaev’s decisive win, Du Plessis believes facing and defeating “Borz” should earn him the opportunity to pursue a light heavyweight title, with a potential fight taking place in his home country, South Africa.

Seeking Historic Double Title Opportunity

With wins over elite fighters like Whittaker, Israel Adesanya, and Sean Strickland, Du Plessis is now focused on Chimaev, seeing this matchup as a pinnacle for his career and a pathway to double championship status.

“If I beat Khamzat Chimaev… that warrants a double title fight,” Du Plessis told ESPN. This ambitious goal reflects his desire to compete in South Africa, adding, “South Africa would go crazy no matter who I fight… The goal is a second belt on the same night”.

Beyond the Strickland Rematch

Although UFC initially considered a rematch between Du Plessis and Strickland, the champion remains adamant that Chimaev is the real fight fans are craving. Reflecting on Strickland’s recent performance, Du Plessis expressed greater excitement for a bout with Chimaev, whose grappling prowess and strength pose a thrilling challenge.

He stated, “I want to fight the guy the fans want me to fight, and that 100 percent is Khamzat.”

Future Prospects and UFC’s Next Move

While Du Plessis has indicated he’s ready for any opponent UFC presents, his focus remains on Chimaev. If the UFC moves forward with the Strickland fight in early 2025, Du Plessis envisions taking on Chimaev later in the year, ideally securing a historic night for South African MMA.

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