Dricus Du Plessis is a middleweight king who looks like he’s going to lose but can’t stop winning

Dricus Du Plessis has become one of the most dominant forces in the UFC middleweight division, carving his path through former champions and top contenders alike. With an unorthodox but highly effective fighting style, a fearless mindset, and a series of impressive victories, the South African fighter is now at the center of some of the biggest storylines in MMA.

From his championship-winning performance to potential future clashes—including a possible move up to light heavyweight—Du Plessis is shaping his legacy in a unique way. In this in-depth look at his rise to the top, we’ll explore his key victories, fighting style, potential future matchups, and how he compares to the best in UFC history.

A Meteoric Rise to UFC Champion

Du Plessis entered the UFC in 2020, quickly establishing himself as a threat in the middleweight division. His aggressive yet calculated approach, coupled with elite-level endurance and adaptability, has allowed him to dominate high-caliber opponents.

The defining moment of his career came at UFC 297, where he faced Sean Strickland for the middleweight championship. In a grueling five-round war, Du Plessis secured a split-decision victory (48-47), officially claiming his place at the top of the 185-pound division.

That win cemented his reputation, as he overcame Strickland’s durability and high-volume striking to prove he belonged among the sport’s elite. Following his championship victory, Du Plessis continued to evolve, refining his game while remaining one of the division’s most dangerous and unpredictable fighters.

Breaking Down Du Plessis’ Key Wins

One of the most remarkable aspects of Du Plessis’ career is that three out of the four former middleweight champions still competing have already fallen to him. His ability to defeat high-level opponents consistently sets him apart and makes him one of the most formidable champions in UFC history.

1. Defeating Sean Strickland—UFC 297

This fight was a true test of Du Plessis’ toughness and skillset. Strickland is known for his relentless pressure, sharp boxing, and iron chin, yet Du Plessis found ways to land the more significant strikes and control the pace.

The victory proved that he could go five hard rounds and outfight one of the grittiest competitors in the UFC, marking his arrival as a true champion.

2. Stopping Robert Whittaker—UFC 290

Before facing Strickland, Du Plessis took on former champion Robert Whittaker, one of the most technically skilled middleweights in UFC history. Many doubted Du Plessis’ ability to handle Whittaker’s elite striking and fight IQ, but he shocked the world by scoring a TKO victory in the second round.

This dominant finish over a legendary former champion sent a clear message: Du Plessis wasn’t just a contender—he was a future champion.

3. Defeating Derek Brunson—UFC 285

Brunson, a dangerous wrestler and veteran of the sport, posed a unique challenge for Du Plessis. However, in a classic showcase of his toughness and striking power, Du Plessis broke Brunson down before forcing a corner stoppage after Round 2.

This win solidified his ability to deal with top-tier wrestlers and grapplers, proving that he was well-rounded enough to handle any style.

A Fighting Style Like No Other

One of the most fascinating aspects of Du Plessis’ success is his unorthodox yet effective approach to MMA. Unlike many textbook strikers or grapplers, he relies on a combination of raw power, unconventional movement, and sheer willpower.

Unorthodox Striking

Du Plessis’ striking isn’t the most polished, but it’s extremely effective. He throws punches from unusual angles, making it difficult for opponents to predict his attacks. He also possesses knockout power in both hands, which allows him to capitalize on even the smallest openings.

Elite Cardio and Pressure Fighting

Despite being built like a powerhouse, Du Plessis has incredible endurance. He thrives in chaotic exchanges, wearing down opponents with constant forward pressure and relentless attacks. Even in high-paced fights that go the distance, he manages to keep up an impressive work rate, a rarity among power punchers.

Dangerous Ground Game

While his striking gets most of the attention, Du Plessis is also a legitimate grappling threat. With a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he is dangerous off his back and on top. His ability to mix striking with wrestling has made him a well-rounded nightmare for opponents.

What’s Next? Potential Superfights & Challenges

1. Rematch with Sean Strickland

Strickland has been vocal about wanting a rematch, believing he did enough to win their first fight. Given how competitive the fight was, the UFC may decide to book a high-stakes rematch between the two middleweights.

2. A Historic Clash with Israel Adesanya

Israel Adesanya, a two-time UFC middleweight champion, is one of the most decorated fighters in the division’s history. While he lost the belt to Strickland, a fight between him and Du Plessis would be one of the biggest matchups in MMA.

Their heated rivalry and contrasting styles would make for an explosive fight, potentially one of the most anticipated middleweight title bouts ever.

3. A Move to Light Heavyweight and a Showdown with Alex Pereira

One of the most intriguing possibilities is Du Plessis moving up to light heavyweight (205 lbs) for a superfight with reigning champion Alex Pereira.

Pereira, a former middleweight champion himself, left the division because his natural weight is over 220 lbs, making the cut to 185 too difficult.

A Du Plessis vs. Pereira fight would be a blockbuster event, pitting two of the hardest-hitting and most exciting fighters against each other for potential double-championship glory.

A Unique Champion in UFC History

Du Plessis has already made history with his dominant run in the UFC, but he still has plenty of room to grow his legacy. If he continues his winning streak and takes on bigger challenges, he could cement himself as one of the greatest middleweights of all time.

Where He Ranks Among UFC Middleweight Greats

• Anderson Silva (Longest Title Reign—10 Defenses)
• Israel Adesanya (Two-Time Champion, 5 Defenses)
• Chris Weidman (Defeated Silva Twice, 3 Defenses)
• Robert Whittaker (One of the Most Skilled Champions)
• Dricus Du Plessis (Current Champion, Unbeaten in UFC Middleweight)

While Du Plessis still has a long way to go before surpassing legends like Silva and Adesanya, his dominance over former champions and his potential for future greatness make him one of the most exciting names in UFC today.

Final Thoughts: The Era of Du Plessis?

Dricus Du Plessis has defied expectations at every step of his UFC journey. From taking out top contenders to becoming the middleweight champion, his rise has been nothing short of spectacular.

With a combination of power, cardio, grappling, and mental toughness, he has all the tools needed to remain champion for a long time. However, bigger challenges lie ahead, including rematches with former foes and potential superfights against UFC’s biggest names.

Will Du Plessis go down as one of the greatest middleweights in UFC history? Only time will tell, but for now, the throne belongs to him.

Stay tuned—because the Du Plessis era is just getting started.