Dricus Du Plessis Focuses on Khamzat Chimaev Before Alex Pereira Superfight
After a dominant victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312, Dricus Du Plessis has set his sights on his next challenge. The undefeated fighter has made it clear that his priority is to face Khamzat Chimaev before moving on to a potential showdown with middleweight champion Alex Pereira. Du Plessis outlined his plan during the post-fight press conference, focusing on securing the middleweight title and establishing his legacy as the division’s best before looking to a different weight class.
Du Plessis Prioritizes Khamzat Chimaev Over Alex Pereira
Following his impressive win, Du Plessis emphasized his intentions to focus on dominating the middleweight division before considering a move to face Pereira. Although fans are excited for a potential superfight between Du Plessis and Pereira, the South African fighter believes that Chimaev is the most important opponent at this stage of his career. “No, Khamzat first,” Du Plessis confirmed.
Du Plessis explained that while he respects Pereira, he wants to face the toughest competition available in his current weight class. “I’ve told [Alex Pereira] to deal with [Magomed] Ankalaev first. I have no personal issues with Ankalaev, but I want to face Pereira,” Du Plessis stated. His focus remains on solidifying his legacy in the middleweight division before making the leap to other weight classes.
Du Plessis’ Legacy: Aiming to Be the Greatest Middleweight
Dricus Du Plessis has set high goals for himself, aiming not just to win titles but to establish himself as the greatest middleweight of all time. With an undefeated UFC record and victories over top contenders like Sean Strickland, Israel Adesanya, and Robert Whittaker, Du Plessis is rapidly climbing the rankings. However, for him, legacy is more important than title defenses.
Du Plessis believes that greatness is defined not just by holding a title but by the quality of opponents you face. “Anderson Silva is the greatest middleweight of all time,” Du Plessis said, citing the Brazilian legend’s reign with 10 successful title defenses. “Israel Adesanya has also achieved great things, but it’s about facing the right fighters and defending your title when it matters most.” For Du Plessis, it’s crucial to prove he’s the best middleweight before contemplating a step up in weight class.
Khamzat Chimaev: The Right Challenge at the Right Time
For Du Plessis, facing Khamzat Chimaev is the logical next step in his career. Despite Chimaev’s recent slip in the rankings following Nassourdine Imavov’s win over Israel Adesanya, Du Plessis still considers Chimaev the top challenge in the middleweight division. “Chimaev deserves to be the next challenge,” Du Plessis affirmed. His victory over Robert Whittaker solidified Chimaev’s place near the top of the division, and Du Plessis is determined to face him next.
“Khamzat should be my next fight because he’s earned it, and I want to test myself against him,” Du Plessis said, recognizing Chimaev’s dominance. Beating Chimaev, Du Plessis believes, will be a crucial step in proving himself as the best middleweight in the world.
Alex Pereira: The Superfight Is Waiting
While Du Plessis’ primary focus is on Khamzat Chimaev, the potential superfight with Alex Pereira remains a significant part of his future plans. Du Plessis respects Pereira’s rapid rise in the UFC, praising his achievements in a short time, especially his success coming from another sport. “I have a lot of respect for Alex Pereira. What he has done in such a short time in the UFC is remarkable,” Du Plessis acknowledged.
However, Du Plessis is in no rush to face Pereira. He wants to ensure that he has dominated the middleweight division before stepping into the cage with the champion. “I’ve already beaten Israel Adesanya, who defeated Pereira. I know I can beat him too, but first, I need to deal with Khamzat Chimaev,” Du Plessis concluded. His goal is clear: dominate at middleweight before moving on to any other challenges.
Conclusion
Dricus Du Plessis is following a clear and calculated path to the top of the middleweight division. With impressive victories already under his belt, he remains focused on securing his place as the best middleweight in UFC history. While the prospect of a superfight with Alex Pereira excites fans, Du Plessis has made it clear that his immediate goal is to face Khamzat Chimaev. As Du Plessis continues to climb the ranks, the UFC middleweight division is set for an exciting next chapter. Fans eagerly await his next move in what promises to be an unforgettable career journey.
