Dricus Du Plessis’ Shocking Statement: “Nobody in the UFC is at my level—not even these legends”

In the high-stakes, tension-filled world of UFC, words matter—a lot. Recently, UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis made a bold statement during the build-up to UFC 319, where he is set to defend his belt against Khamzat Chimaev. In a video posted by Betway, when asked who had been his toughest opponent to date, Du Plessis stunned MMA fans by naming Israel Adesanya, not because he was bruised or bloodied—but because of the technical mastery Izzy brings to the cage.

“My toughest opponent to date… probably Adesanya was the best guy I faced in his specific area… it was the fight I was most nervous for in terms of how good he is.”
— Dricus Du Plessis

This article will dissect the implications of that statement—from fan reactions to what it reveals about Du Plessis’ mindset, strategy, and legacy.

Champion vs. Legend

Dricus Du Plessis rose to prominence after defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 297 to capture the Middleweight Championship. Then, at UFC 305, he squared off against Israel Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champ and an MMA striking legend. The fight was highly anticipated—and filled with drama. Adesanya exerted early dominance, but Du Plessis turned things around with pressure grappling and strategic offense, ultimately submitting him in the fourth round. It was Adesanya’s first career loss by submission—and for Du Plessis, it was a career-defining moment.

So when asked to name his toughest opponent, Du Plessis pointed to Adesanya—not because he struggled physically, but because of the complexity and respect he has for his skill set.

Fan Backlash: Why Some Bristled

The internet erupted with reactions. Many fans questioned the candor of Du Plessis’ choice, arguing that requests for honesty should include naming the fighter who posed the greatest threat in his cage:

• “Hey Dricus, you’re great, but at least don’t lie. Adesanya? Really? That’s the least dangerous middleweight on the roster right now.”

• Comparisons were made to Sean Strickland, who gave Du Plessis his toughest test, taking nearly a full five rounds before Du Plessis barely edged him via split decision.

• Brad Tavares was also mentioned frequently—not for his technical brilliance, but for his toughness and ability to absorb damage throughout the fight.

Why Adesanya? Technical Respect over Psychological Danger

Du Plessis clarified he didn’t mean “toughest” in terms of physical damage or bloodshed, but rather “best technically”:

“While Adesanya is the best guy I faced in his specific area… when you talk pure toughness, certainly Brad Tavares or Sean Strickland. They were insanely tough.”

Thus, Du Plessis separated technical mastery (Adesanya) from physical relentlessness (Strickland, Tavares). His statement may have sounded arrogant to some—a champion elevating his under-appreciated qualities—but it’s rooted in a nuanced understanding of his opponents’ varied strengths.

The Weight of Words: Champion’s Responsibility

In a sport rooted in respect and warrior ethos, champion statements carry weight. Du Plessis’ words illustrate a deeper truth—that he views MMA not only as physical combat, but as a contest of styles, intelligence, and psychological warfare. Still, the omission of an explicit nod to the more daunting experiences (Strickland, Tavares) raised eyebrows.

This highlights the growing sensitivity of MMA fans to authenticity. Audiences demand nuance, not just hype—and expect truth, even when the flavor of that truth is uncomfortable.

Highlighting the Legend: Israel Adesanya’s Legacy

Israel Adesanya isn’t just any striker—he’s a multi-time champion, a master tactician, and a stylist who turned striking into performance art. Du Plessis’ respect for him is not misplaced:

• Adesanya’s fluid movement, defensive awareness, and ability to counter are feared in every weight class.

• Their UFC 305 encounter was a stylistic chess match, with Adesanya winning early rounds before Du Plessis changed the pace with aggression and grappling pressure.

Citing Adesanya was less a boast and more an acknowledgment of technical excellence.

Impact Statement: What Lies Ahead at UFC 319

UFC 319 sees Du Plessis face Khamzat Chimaev, a ferocious, undefeated grappler known for chain wrestling and fast finishes. Du Plessis has already challenged Chimaev to “full-speed” combat, confident his deeper pace will outlast Chimaev’s aggressive bursts. Analysts even speculate a win could elevate him toward the top of the pound-for-pound list.

Given this backdrop, Du Plessis’ earlier comment takes on new color: he labels opponents not simply based on damage or fear factor, but by the challenge their style presents. Chimaev’s power and pace test his will and endurance; Adesanya tested his technical adaptability.

Lessons & Legacy: Deeper Than Words

At its core, the controversy says more about MMA’s evolving narrative than Du Plessis alone:

Strategy Over Raw Drama

Du Plessis asserts that MMA is about layers—striking, wrestling, cardio, mental composure. Naming Adesanya underscores respect for that depth.

Champion’s Image

A champion must balance confidence with humility. One perceived misstep (underplaying the toughness of others) can muddle public perception.

Fan Engagement and Storytelling

Fans interpret words through the lens of their favorite fighters. Disagreement signals passion and investment, not disinterest.

No Fighter Is Above The Debate

Dricus Du Plessis’s claim that “no one in the UFC measures up… not even legends” may echo boldness—but it also underscores his confidence in his vision of MMA.

If interpreted thoughtfully, his words reveal a champion attuned not just to wins, but to the unique threats and challenges posed by each opponent. His recognition of Adesanya’s technical mastery highlights this.

As he prepares for UFC 319 against Khamzat Chimaev, Du Plessis stands at a crossroads: one that may define his legacy. If he emerges victorious, it will be as a fighter who sees and conquers every dimension of the game—striking, wrestling, strategy, and heart.