Dricus Du Plessis Shocks with Response to Shara Magomedov: ‘Get This Guy Some Eye Drops’ – Is Trash Talk Going Too Far or Just a Fun Joke?

The world of mixed martial arts thrives on intensity, passion, and high-stakes competition. But beyond the physical confrontations inside the Octagon, the verbal battles outside of it often draw just as much attention. Recently, UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis took center stage with a controversial comment aimed at rising Russian star Shara Magomedov, saying, “Get this guy some eye drops.” The quip, a clear reference to Magomedov’s distinct ocular condition, has sparked heated debates across the MMA community. Is this a case of trash talk going too far, or simply a fighter engaging in classic pre-fight banter?

The Origins of the Rivalry

Shara Magomedov, a flamboyant and undefeated striker known for his explosive style and unique appearance, has quickly become a fan favorite in the UFC. With a background in kickboxing and a striking look that includes a notable eye condition, Magomedov has drawn both admiration and curiosity. Despite his relatively recent arrival to the UFC, he’s made waves with decisive wins and a strong social media presence.

Dricus Du Plessis, on the other hand, is at the top of the middleweight food chain. The South African champion has earned his place through grit, heart, and hard-fought victories over some of the division’s biggest names. His rise to the title has not only showcased his physical abilities but also his confidence, both in and out of the cage.

The tension between the two fighters began to escalate after Magomedov hinted at a possible challenge to Du Plessis, suggesting that the current champion hadn’t truly been tested by an elite striker. Du Plessis, never one to shy away from confrontation, fired back with the now-infamous comment that lit up social media: “Get this guy some eye drops.”

Breaking Down the Comment: Banter or Bullying?

The remark from Du Plessis has been dissected from every angle. For some, it was a lighthearted jab, part of the traditional UFC trash talk culture that has long included wild claims, sarcastic barbs, and humorous insults. Fighters like Conor McGregor, Chael Sonnen, and Michael Bisping have all used verbal warfare as a strategic and promotional tool, often boosting pay-per-view buys and fan engagement.

However, critics argue that mocking a physical condition crosses the line. Magomedov’s eye condition is not merely cosmetic; it’s a sensitive subject that many believe should be off-limits. For those in this camp, Du Plessis’s comment reflects poor taste and a lack of professionalism.

MMA Community Reacts: Divided Opinions

As expected, the MMA fan base and professional community are split. Supporters of Du Plessis defend the comment as just part of the game. In their eyes, nothing was said with malice, and fighters have always targeted each other’s perceived weaknesses—whether it’s mental toughness, fight records, or physical attributes. In this sense, the comment fits within the long tradition of psychological warfare.

Conversely, others have pointed out that MMA is evolving, and fighters have a growing responsibility to set examples, especially with the sport gaining mainstream attention globally. They argue that mocking someone’s medical condition sends the wrong message, especially to young fans and aspiring fighters.

Du Plessis and His History of Bold Statements

This isn’t the first time Dricus Du Plessis has made headlines for his outspoken nature. Whether it’s confronting Israel Adesanya over national identity or questioning the legitimacy of other contenders, Du Plessis has cultivated a reputation as a confident and sometimes provocative figure.

His approach to verbal sparring is reminiscent of other top-level fighters who use mind games to gain an advantage. By getting under his opponents’ skin, Du Plessis may be attempting to destabilize them before they even step into the cage.

The Role of Trash Talk in Modern MMA

To understand this situation fully, it’s important to examine the function of trash talk in MMA. In a sport where marketability can dictate matchmaking as much as rankings, fighters often rely on sharp tongues to create interest. Trash talk can build rivalries, generate headlines, and help fighters stand out in a crowded field.

But where is the line? Should fighters self-censor, or is anything fair game in the build-up to a fight? Many athletes, coaches, and commentators are asking whether it’s time for a reevaluation of the culture around pre-fight promotion.

Shara Magomedov’s Response: Silence or Strategy?

Interestingly, Shara Magomedov has not directly responded to Du Plessis’s comment. Some speculate that his silence is strategic—a way to avoid giving his opponent the psychological advantage. Others suggest he may be waiting for the right moment to strike back, either verbally or in the cage.

His fan base, however, has been vocal. Supporters have flooded social media with memes, rebuttals, and messages of encouragement, positioning Magomedov as the bigger person in the exchange. Some fans even view the situation as a classic underdog story in the making, potentially setting the stage for a high-profile bout.

Promotion or Provocation: UFC’s Perspective

From a promotional standpoint, the UFC likely sees value in the feud. Controversy creates conversation, and the clash of personalities between Du Plessis and Magomedov is ripe for storytelling. However, the organization has occasionally intervened in similar situations when comments were deemed overly offensive or detrimental to the brand.

Whether UFC President Dana White or other executives will address this particular incident remains to be seen. So far, the UFC has stayed silent, possibly to let the situation play out and gauge public reaction.

Fighters Weigh In: A Code of Respect?

Several UFC fighters have commented on the situation. Some, like Sean Strickland and Colby Covington, known for their own edgy trash talk, have defended Du Plessis’s right to speak freely. Others, like Robert Whittaker and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, have emphasized the importance of mutual respect in the sport.

Whittaker noted in a recent interview: “There’s always a line. You can sell a fight without making it personal. It’s about professionalism.”

This ongoing discussion raises the broader question: Should there be an unwritten code among fighters to respect certain boundaries, or does the freedom to speak openly take precedence in a sport built on combat?

Looking Ahead: Will the Fight Happen?

With the tension between Dricus Du Plessis and Shara Magomedov boiling over, speculation about a future matchup is intensifying. Fans are eager to see the verbal jousting translate into physical action in the Octagon.

From a stylistic perspective, the fight promises fireworks. Magomedov’s striking acumen versus Du Plessis’s grit and endurance could produce a thrilling contest. The added layer of personal animosity only heightens the anticipation.

If the UFC capitalizes on the drama and books the bout, it could become one of the most talked-about middleweight clashes in recent memory.

Final Thoughts: Joke or Jab Too Far?

Ultimately, the statement “Get this guy some eye drops” will be remembered as either a clever piece of trash talk or a regrettable low blow. For some fans, it’s all part of the show—a bit of banter that adds color to the fight game. For others, it serves as a reminder that even in combat sports, words carry weight.

As MMA continues to grow globally and attract a more diverse audience, fighters and organizations alike may need to reconsider how they approach promotion, respect, and the line between fun and offense. One thing is certain: the rivalry between Du Plessis and Magomedov has the MMA world talking, and the next move could define both men’s legacies inside and outside the cage.

Whether it ends in a handshake or a head kick, fans will be watching closely to see how this rivalry evolves.