Dricus Du Plessis vs. Derek Brunson: Full UFC 285 fight breakdown and analysis

On March 4, 2023, UFC fans witnessed a high-stakes middleweight clash between South Africa’s rising star Dricus Du Plessis and veteran contender Derek Brunson at UFC 285. The bout not only showcased the contrasting styles of two fighters at different stages in their careers but also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the UFC middleweight division.

This comprehensive breakdown covers every aspect of the fight—from fighter backgrounds to post-fight reactions—giving fans a full picture of what happened inside the octagon.

Fighter Profiles

Dricus Du Plessis: The Rising Contender

Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis came into UFC 285 riding a wave of momentum. The South African fighter had already made waves with wins over Brad Tavares and Darren Till, displaying a unique blend of striking power and grappling prowess.

With a professional record of 18-2 before the fight, Du Plessis was seen as one of the most exciting prospects in the middleweight division. His style revolves around high-pressure offense, powerful striking, and relentless ground-and-pound.

Key Strengths:

• Aggressive forward pressure

• Knockout power

• Solid submission game

Derek Brunson: The Veteran Gatekeeper

Derek Brunson has been a staple in the UFC middleweight division for over a decade. With victories over elite fighters like Lyoto Machida, Uriah Hall, and Kevin Holland, Brunson carved out a reputation as the ultimate gatekeeper—testing rising contenders before they reached the top.

At 39 years old, Brunson entered UFC 285 coming off a tough loss to Jared Cannonier. Despite his experience, many questioned whether the veteran still had what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Key Strengths:

• Elite wrestling base

• KO power with looping hooks

• Grit and durability

Pre-Fight Hype and Expectations

The clash between Du Plessis and Brunson had the MMA community buzzing. Many analysts saw this fight as a classic “Young Lion vs. Old Guard” matchup. Brunson’s wrestling-heavy style posed a potential challenge for Du Plessis, while the South African’s relentless pace could expose the veteran’s declining cardio.

Betting Odds:

• Dricus Du Plessis: -200 (Favorite)

• Derek Brunson: +160 (Underdog)

Fight Breakdown

Round 1: A Fast Start

The opening round saw Brunson come out aggressive, looking to impose his wrestling early. He successfully caught a high kick from Du Plessis, bringing the fight to the mat. For the first two minutes, Brunson controlled the action, attempting a guillotine choke and landing short punches from top position.

However, Du Plessis remained calm, defending well and reversing the position midway through the round. The South African then began landing heavy shots on the ground, showing his underrated grappling skills.

By the end of the round, Du Plessis had taken control, leaving Brunson visibly exhausted on his stool.

Round Winner: Du Plessis (10-9)**

Round 2: The Beginning of the End

The second round highlighted the stark difference in cardio between the two fighters. Du Plessis began applying relentless pressure, landing hard left hooks and punishing body kicks.

Brunson’s takedown attempts became sloppy and desperate, allowing Du Plessis to stuff them easily. Midway through the round, Du Plessis secured a takedown of his own, unleashing a barrage of ground-and-pound strikes.

With Brunson pinned against the cage and absorbing heavy damage, his corner made the rare decision to throw in the towel with just one second left in the round.

Result: Dricus Du Plessis wins via TKO (Round 2, 4:59)**

Statistical Breakdown:

Post-Fight Analysis

What This Victory Means for Dricus Du Plessis

With this win, Du Plessis extended his UFC record to 5-0, solidifying himself as a top-10 contender in the middleweight division. His performance proved that he could overcome adversity, handle high-level wrestlers, and finish fights at an elite level.

Post-fight, Du Plessis called for a bout against a top-five opponent, hinting at future matchups with fighters like Paulo Costa or Sean Strickland.

Potential Next Opponent: Jared Cannonier

Is This the End for Derek Brunson?

Brunson’s performance raised serious questions about his future in the UFC. Despite his decorated career, the veteran appeared slower, fatigued, and unable to withstand sustained pressure.

After the fight, Brunson hinted at retirement, though he left the door open for one final bout.

Potential Next Opponent: Retirement or Chris Curtis

Key Reactions from the MMA Community

• Dana White (UFC President): “Du Plessis is the real deal. This guy’s a problem for anyone at 185.”

• Daniel Cormier (UFC Commentator): “Brunson’s corner made the right call throwing in the towel. He had nothing left.”

• Fans on Twitter: “Dricus Du Plessis is the next big thing at middleweight!”

What’s Next for the Middleweight Division?

The UFC middleweight division is one of the most competitive weight classes in the sport. With Du Plessis climbing the ranks, new matchups are on the horizon.

Top Contenders After UFC 285:

Conclusion: Dricus Du Plessis – The Future of the Middleweight Division

The UFC 285 clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Derek Brunson was more than just a fight—it was a changing of the guard in the middleweight division. Du Plessis’s ability to survive early adversity and dominate a veteran like Brunson signals that he is a future title contender.

As Brunson contemplates retirement, Du Plessis’s rise marks the dawn of a new era. With his relentless pressure, finishing instincts, and undeniable charisma, Du Plessis could soon become the face of South African MMA.

Final Thoughts

Dricus Du Plessis vs. Derek Brunson was more than just another UFC fight—it was a pivotal moment in the middleweight division’s evolving storyline. With Du Plessis’s stock on the rise and Brunson potentially heading into retirement, this fight marks the beginning of a new era in the UFC middleweight division.

Whether you’re a fan of rising stars or veteran warriors, one thing is clear: the middleweight division is more exciting than ever.