The South African UFC fighter, Dricus du Plessis, has stated that he will return to the octagon stronger than ever after his middleweight title loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. He promises that his “pursuit of greatness will be unimaginable to the average mind”. Du Plessis shared his reflections on Instagram on Monday, mentioning that he had spent the week following his defeat recovering with friends and family. Although he accepted the defeat, which was decisive, he issued a warning to his critics. The first South African UFC champion wrote in his first post since the fight in Chicago:
I accept this defeat with open arms, because believe me, as much as I hate losing, it’s part of life and our game, and I think it’s necessary in my quest for greatness. “Without the bitter, the sweet wouldn’t be so sweet”.
Dricus du Plessis
Make no mistake, I am not a good loser, because a good loser becomes a frequent one. However, I am an avid learner of the arts and of life itself.
Dricus du Plessis
This defeat has ignited within me a desire that will result in an attack greater than the original domination: my return to glory and the pursuit of greatness will be unimaginable to the average mind.
Dricus du Plessis
I have absolutely no excuse for my performance, I was outmatched by a better fighter that night, congratulations to my opponent and thank you for the honor of sharing the octagon with you.
Dricus du Plessis
Du Plessis was crowned UFC middleweight champion in January 2024 after defeating Sean Strickland. He then defended his belt against Israel Adesanya in August, and again against Strickland in February of this year. His third title defense didn’t go as expected, as Chimaev dominated Du Plessis from the start, controlling all five rounds on the ground. Although Du Plessis resisted submission, Chimaev won by unanimous decision. After the fight, Du Plessis praised his opponent:And, frankly, thanks to all those who enjoyed seeing me fall, because I will return the favor, as I always have.
Dricus du Plessis
The man has incredible control on top. It wasn’t a matter of strength, it wasn’t physical, it was almost as if he knew what your next move would be.
Dricus du Plessis
I almost tasted that victory [with the key in the fifth round], but I was defeated fairly and cleanly. He was the better man tonight. I will return to reclaim my belt, but for now, it’s his. He deserves it.
Dricus du Plessis
