Dricus Du Plessis really dominates the UFC’s middleweight division, as he hasn’t lost in over 6 years

Dricus Du Plessis, famously nicknamed “Stillknocks,” has emerged as one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC middleweight division. With an unbroken winning streak stretching over six years, Du Plessis has carved out a reputation as an unstoppable force inside the octagon. His journey from adversity to glory, culminating in a 10-fight win streak and a UFC Middleweight Championship, has captivated MMA fans worldwide.

Since his last defeat in October 2018, Du Plessis has been on a meteoric rise, showcasing his versatility, resilience, and finishing power. Not only has he captured the coveted middleweight title, but he has also successfully defended it against some of the most decorated fighters in the division’s history, including Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, and Sean Strickland.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Dricus Du Plessis’ unbeaten streak, his signature fighting style, and what the future might hold for the reigning middleweight champion.

A 10-Fight Unbeaten Streak: A Journey of Redemption

Du Plessis’ current winning streak began after his last defeat in October 2018. At that time, his career seemed uncertain, but he made a remarkable comeback, refining his skills and rebuilding his confidence. This resurgence saw him secure victory after victory, leading to a dominant presence in the UFC.

The streak has been far from easy, as Du Plessis has faced—and defeated—some of the biggest names in MMA. His relentless work ethic, mental toughness, and diverse skill set have all contributed to his undefeated run, which has spanned over half a decade.

Defeating the Best: A Hat Trick of Champions

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Du Plessis’ rise is the caliber of fighters he has defeated. In his last three fights, he has bested three former middleweight champions, cementing his place as the king of the division.

1. Israel Adesanya – One of the most accomplished middleweights in UFC history, Adesanya seemed unbeatable at his peak. However, Du Plessis shocked the MMA world by defeating him at UFC 305 in a fourth-round submission victory. His ability to adapt and capitalize on Adesanya’s mistakes showcased his tactical brilliance.

2. Robert Whittaker – Known for his striking and defensive skills, Whittaker posed a unique challenge. Du Plessis, however, was undaunted. He dismantled Whittaker with precision striking and relentless pressure, winning by TKO in the third round.

3. Sean Strickland – In his second meeting with Strickland at UFC 312, Du Plessis proved that his first victory was no fluke. The rematch, a grueling five-round battle, ended in a unanimous decision in favor of Du Plessis, solidifying his dominance over yet another former champion.

A Versatile Fighting Style

What makes Du Plessis such a formidable opponent is his versatility inside the cage. Unlike fighters who specialize in just one discipline, Du Plessis is a well-rounded mixed martial artist with expertise in striking, grappling, and submissions.

Striking Power

Du Plessis’ striking is characterized by his explosive power, unpredictability, and ability to switch stances. This versatility makes it difficult for opponents to anticipate his next move. His knockout victories over elite fighters demonstrate the devastating power he brings to the stand-up game.

Grappling and Submission Skills

In addition to his striking prowess, Du Plessis is a dangerous grappler. He has showcased his submission skills in several fights, including his victory over Israel Adesanya. By seamlessly transitioning between striking and grappling, Du Plessis keeps his opponents on edge, unable to predict his strategy.

Mental Toughness

Perhaps Du Plessis’ greatest strength is his mental toughness. He has shown the ability to stay composed under pressure, make tactical adjustments mid-fight, and push through adversity. This resilience was on full display in his five-round war with Sean Strickland, where he maintained focus and outworked his opponent to secure the victory.

The Role of Preparation and Conditioning

Behind every great fighter is a rigorous training regimen, and Du Plessis is no exception. His preparation for fights is meticulous, involving intense physical conditioning, strategic planning, and mental preparation. His team, which includes top coaches and training partners, plays a crucial role in refining his skills and keeping him in peak condition.

Du Plessis’ ability to maintain a high level of performance over five rounds is a testament to his cardio and conditioning. Unlike some fighters who fade in the later rounds, Du Plessis remains strong, using his endurance to wear down his opponents.

A Bright Future in the UFC

With his impressive track record and growing popularity, the future looks bright for Dricus Du Plessis. However, the road ahead is not without challenges. The middleweight division is stacked with talented fighters, and Du Plessis will need to stay sharp to remain at the top.

Potential Next Opponents

One of the most anticipated potential matchups for Du Plessis is a showdown with Khamzat Chimaev, an undefeated fighter known for his aggressive style and dominant grappling. A fight between Du Plessis and Chimaev would be a clash of titans, with the winner solidifying their status as the best middleweight in the world.

Another possible opponent is Paulo Costa, a hard-hitting striker with a reputation for thrilling fights. Costa’s power and striking acumen would present a unique challenge for Du Plessis.

Legacy Building

As Du Plessis continues to defend his title and take on top contenders, he has the opportunity to build a legacy as one of the greatest middleweights in UFC history. His ability to defeat former champions, adapt to different fighting styles, and maintain his unbeaten streak sets him apart as a truly elite fighter.

The Impact of Fan Support

One of the key factors behind Du Plessis’ rise to stardom is the unwavering support of his fans. His engaging personality, humility, and willingness to connect with his supporters have endeared him to the MMA community.

Du Plessis often credits his fans for motivating him and driving him to succeed. Whether it’s through social media interactions, post-fight interviews, or public appearances, he remains approachable and down-to-earth, despite his growing fame.

Conclusion: A Champion on the Rise

Dricus Du Plessis’ journey from his last defeat in 2018 to becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. His ability to overcome adversity, adapt to different challenges, and dominate some of the best fighters in the world has made him one of the most exciting athletes in MMA.

As he continues to defend his title and take on new challengers, fans can look forward to more thrilling fights, unforgettable moments, and the ongoing evolution of a true champion.

With his unbeaten streak, versatile skill set, and championship mindset, Dricus Du Plessis is not just a fighter to watch—he’s a fighter destined for greatness.