Dricus Du Plessis Declares ‘100% Fight Chimaev’, But Will ‘Borz’s’ Unmatched Strength Overwhelm the Champion?

In one of the most tantalizing potential matchups in recent UFC memory, middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis has officially declared his intention to “100% fight Khamzat Chimaev”, setting the MMA world ablaze. The South African powerhouse seems fearless in the face of the most intimidating challenger on the UFC roster. But as anticipation builds for this explosive showdown, fans and analysts alike are asking the same question: Will Chimaev’s unmatched strength and relentless style be too much for Du Plessis to handle?

Dricus Du Plessis: The Relentless, Underdog Champion

Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis has carved out a reputation as one of the most relentless and unorthodox fighters in the middleweight division. With an awkward yet effective striking style, iron will, and an underdog mentality, Du Plessis shocked the world by defeating Sean Strickland to claim the UFC Middleweight Title.

What separates Du Plessis from the rest is his grit and ability to adapt mid-fight. He’s not the cleanest technician, but what he lacks in aesthetic, he makes up for in heart and fight IQ. His championship win wasn’t just a personal triumph—it represented the emergence of South Africa as a serious MMA hub, with Du Plessis leading the charge.

Now, as a newly crowned champion, Du Plessis isn’t taking an easy path. He’s ready to face the most feared man in the UFC—Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev.

Khamzat Chimaev: The Undefeated Juggernaut

Few fighters in modern UFC history have commanded as much hype as Khamzat Chimaev. With an undefeated record, terrifying grappling, and almost inhuman aggression, Chimaev has bulldozed nearly everyone in his path. Whether it’s wrestling elite grapplers into submission or rag-dolling seasoned strikers, the Chechen-born star has looked unstoppable.

But Chimaev’s UFC middleweight credentials remain somewhat untested, especially against the top of the division. His most notable middleweight win came against Kamaru Usman, a former welterweight, in a close contest. Though his dominance remains unquestioned, critics argue he still needs to beat a full-sized middleweight champion to prove he truly belongs at the top.

Enter Dricus Du Plessis, who now holds the belt and has declared with conviction: “I’ll fight Khamzat 100%. No question.”

Why This Fight Matters

This isn’t just a champion defending his belt. It’s a clash of worlds, styles, and personas:

• Du Plessis represents grit, evolution, and unpredictability.

• Chimaev brings brute force, dominance, and a wave of fear.

Both fighters are undefeated in the middleweight division. Both are controversial, captivating, and polarizing. And both are known for never backing down from a challenge.

UFC President Dana White has hinted that the matchup is in serious consideration for late 2025, potentially headlining a massive international event—perhaps in Abu Dhabi, where Chimaev has a loyal fanbase, or even in South Africa for a historic homecoming.

Will Chimaev’s Strength Be Too Much for Du Plessis?

This is the million-dollar question.

Chimaev’s wrestling and pressure game are nearly unmatched. He suffocates opponents early, controls them on the mat, and leaves little room for escape. He’s explosive, heavy-handed, and deceptively quick.

If Du Plessis allows Chimaev to get inside early and dictate the pace, the fight could slip from his grasp quickly.

But there’s another side.

Du Plessis has never been broken, even when he’s hurt or outpaced. His cardio holds up in later rounds, and his power persists deep into fights. He’s also shown resilience against fighters who mix wrestling and striking—a critical skill set against someone like Chimaev.

The big unknown is how Chimaev will fare in a true five-round middleweight war. He’s never gone five rounds, and his last performance raised questions about his cardio when dragged into the third frame. If Du Plessis can survive the early storm, he might just turn the tide in the later rounds.

Stylistic Breakdown

• Grappling: Chimaev has a clear edge. His wrestling is elite, and his top control is smothering.

• Striking: Du Plessis is awkward but powerful. Chimaev’s striking is improving, but he may not want prolonged exchanges.

• Cardio: Slight edge to Du Plessis based on past performances.

• Experience: Du Plessis has gone through gritty five-rounders. Chimaev is still an unknown in deep waters.

What Du Plessis Has Said About the Fight

In interviews, Du Plessis has been direct and defiant:

“I’m not scared of Chimaev. I’ll fight him anytime, anywhere. He’s dangerous, but so am I. Let’s find out who’s really the baddest in this division.”

He has also alluded to Chimaev skipping the line, suggesting that other contenders like Jared Cannonier or Robert Whittaker may be more deserving. Still, Du Plessis knows the Chimaev fight is the biggest payday—and the biggest statement.

“If the UFC wants that fight, I’ll sign tomorrow. I’m not backing down. I’m the champion. Let him come take it.”

Chimaev’s Response

Chimaev, never one to mince words, has already posted cryptic Instagram messages and training clips, teasing fans with his usual “I smash everyone” bravado. He’s hinted that Du Plessis is next, calling him “easy work” and “another body.”

The mind games have started, and fans are glued to every update.

Fan Reactions: Divided but Electrified

Social media has exploded with heated takes:

• Pro-Chimaev fans believe this is the coronation of a new middleweight king.

• Du Plessis supporters argue that the champ has earned his spot and shouldn’t be underestimated.

One thing is clear—this is a fight fans desperately want to see. The stakes are massive, and the stylistic clash promises violence, drama, and possibly a defining moment in UFC middleweight history.

What Could Delay the Fight

Several hurdles remain:

• Chimaev’s health and weight-cutting consistency, which have both been concerns in the past.

• Other contenders pushing for title shots.

• UFC’s scheduling strategy—do they wait for a bigger event or strike while interest is hottest?

Still, if both fighters stay healthy, motivated, and victorious, this clash seems inevitable.

Final Thoughts: A Collision Course with Chaos

Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev is shaping up to be a blockbuster. It’s the champion who refuses to quit against the challenger who’s never lost a round in his mind. It’s Africa vs. Chechnya. Technique vs. tenacity. Power vs. pressure.

And while Du Plessis boldly says “100% I’ll fight Chimaev”, the real mystery remains: Will anyone, even a gritty champion like Du Plessis, be able to survive the storm that is Borz?