After successfully defending his middleweight title against Sean Strickland at UFC 312, Dricus Du Plessis will likely face Khamzat Chimaev in his next bout. This highly anticipated matchup will see two of the division's most dangerous fighters collide, with Chimaev coming off a dominant submission victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308. The fight is expected to be a thrilling clash of styles, with Du Plessis' explosive striking and dynamic aggression up against Chimaev's relentless grappling and power. This bout could solidify Du Plessis' reign as champion or crown Chimaev as the new king of the middleweights.

Fight Preview: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev

Dricus Du Plessis' high-pressure striking and versatile attack will face off against Khamzat Chimaev's relentless wrestling and grappling dominance. Du Plessis' explosive power, effective leg kicks, and aggressive combinations can overwhelm opponents, but Chimaev's superior grappling and submission game present a significant challenge. If Du Plessis can keep the fight standing and dictate the pace with his dynamic striking, he has the potential to secure a knockout or outpoint Chimaev. However, if Chimaev can close the distance and utilize his elite wrestling, he could control Du Plessis on the ground and potentially secure a submission.

The key to victory for Du Plessis lies in maintaining his distance, defending takedowns, and capitalizing on his explosive striking to keep Chimaev on the back foot. On the other hand, Chimaev will look to impose his grappling dominance, utilizing his aggressive pace and suffocating control to neutralize Du Plessis' dynamic offense. This matchup promises to be an intense battle of wills and skills, with both fighters known for their relentless aggression and finishing abilities.

Last Five Fights of Dricus Du Plessis

1. Win vs. Sean Strickland – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 312 – February 9, 2025
2. Win vs. Israel Adesanya – Submission (face crank) – UFC 305 – August 18, 2024
3. Win vs. Sean Strickland – Decision (split) – UFC 297 – January 20, 2024
4. Win vs. Robert Whittaker – TKO (punches) – UFC 290 – July 8, 2023
5. Win vs. Derek Brunson – TKO (corner stoppage) – UFC 285 – March 4, 2023

Last Five Fights of Khamzat Chimaev

1. Win vs. Robert Whittaker – Submission (face crank) – UFC 308 – October 26, 2024
2. Win vs. Kamaru Usman – Decision (majority) – UFC 294 – October 21, 2023
3. Win vs. Kevin Holland – Submission (brabo choke) – UFC 279 – September 10, 2022
4. Win vs. Gilbert Burns – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 273 – April 9, 2022
5. Win vs. Li Jingliang – Technical Submission (rear-naked choke) – UFC 267 – October 30, 2021

Prediction:

This fight is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying matchups in the middleweight division, with both fighters known for their aggressive styles and finishing abilities. If Du Plessis can maintain his explosive pace and keep the fight standing, he could overwhelm Chimaev with his dynamic striking and secure a knockout. However, Chimaev's elite grappling and relentless pressure could prove to be the difference, allowing him to control Du Plessis on the ground and potentially secure a submission or a dominant decision victory.

Official Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev by Submission (Round 3). While Du Plessis' striking and aggression will make this a competitive bout, Chimaev's superior grappling and suffocating pressure are likely to wear down the champion, leading to a late submission victory in what promises to be a thrilling contest.