du Plessis Challenges Chimaev – “Ready to Die for Victory”

Focus Shifts to Khamzat After UFC 308

Dricus du Plessis has set his sights firmly on Khamzat Chimaev following UFC 308, where Chimaev defeated Robert Whittaker in a much-anticipated middleweight clash. Watching from his home in Pretoria, South Africa, du Plessis initially expected Whittaker to win. However, he was aware of Chimaev’s physical advantage, which could have been a deciding factor. Chimaev’s strategy of relentless grappling and raw strength led to an impressive win, reinforcing du Plessis’s view that Chimaev would be a unique opponent to face in the octagon.

“Whittaker is extremely technical, but against raw strength, he has less to counter with,” du Plessis told ESPN MMA.

“DDP” Unafraid of an All-Out Battle Against Chimaev

Like many MMA fans, du Plessis believed that Whittaker’s path to victory was surviving Chimaev’s aggressive first rounds. But when Whittaker couldn’t withstand the pressure, Chimaev’s control sealed the outcome. Known as “DDP,” du Plessis suggests that Chimaev is at his most dangerous in the opening rounds, and that controlling the pace is crucial. He emphasized that mounting an offense and not just defending is essential for challenging Chimaev’s dominance. Already, du Plessis has outlined his game plan to prepare for Chimaev, should they meet.

“When someone fights the way Khamzat does, you have to fight back. If he wrestles you, you wrestle him back,” stated du Plessis.

Planning to face Chimaev involves more than just technical preparation for du Plessis; it’s also about standing his ground and matching Chimaev’s strength. Confident in his unique power, du Plessis is ready to put everything on the line.

Listening to Fan Expectations

Du Plessis believes that staying defensive is insufficient; one must actively push back against Chimaev to avoid falling into his rhythm. He’s convinced that his own power and skills are unlike anything Chimaev has encountered, which could shift the balance in a head-to-head matchup.

“I think, no, I know, that he’s never felt strength like this before,” du Plessis confidently stated. “In the end, it’s about who’s willing to give up or who’s willing to die.”

Recently, du Plessis has also responded to fan expectations for a potential title showdown with Chimaev, although there’s been speculation about a rematch with Sean Strickland. After UFC 308, however, fans appear to be more interested in seeing du Plessis face Chimaev for the title. Du Plessis recognizes the fans’ wishes and has expressed his readiness to give them the fight they’re hoping for.

“If you listen to what fans want to see right now, it’s definitely not a fight with Strickland. I want to fight the best guy, and I want to fight who the fans want to see me fight. And that’s 100% Khamzat,” affirmed du Plessis.

With UFC’s decision still pending, the anticipation is growing for a potential clash between these two fighters, both known for their relentless fighting styles and ability to surprise in the octagon. A possible title bout between du Plessis and Chimaev could mark one of the most exciting matchups in middleweight history.

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