Fan concerns over Dricus du Plessis’s size gap vs Khamzat Chimaev caused shockwaves ahead of UFC 319: How he handled it in an unbelievable way

As anticipation builds for UFC 319, fans around the world are abuzz—not just about the clash between two undefeated titans, Khamzat Chimaev and middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis—but about one unexpected detail: the stark contrast in their physiques. A 14-second handshake video sent shockwaves through the MMA community, raising serious questions about Du Plessis’ readiness. But what followed wasn’t fear or retreat—it was a masterclass in psychological warfare, preparation, and a response so bold, it turned doubters into believers. This is the full story of how a perceived disadvantage became a catalyst for one of the most intriguing pre-fight narratives in UFC history.

The Fight That Has Everyone Talking

UFC 319 has all the ingredients of an iconic showdown. The spotlight is centered on one of the most highly anticipated matchups in recent UFC history: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis. It’s not just a battle for the Middleweight title; it’s a war between two of the most physically dominant fighters the division has seen. But amidst all the excitement, fans have voiced growing concerns over an unusual aspect of this fight — the visible size disparity between the two athletes. What seemed like a minor visual difference turned into a social media frenzy that questioned Du Plessis’ chances.

In a dramatic twist, however, Du Plessis responded in a way that silenced critics, shocked analysts, and reminded the world why he’s the reigning champion.

The Moment That Sparked It All: A 14-Second Clip

It started with a seemingly innocent video.

A 14-second clip went viral on social media, capturing a brief interaction at a training facility. In the video, Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis meet, exchange handshakes, and Dricus places his hand on Chimaev’s shoulder in what seemed like a subtle check of his opponent’s size. While cordial on the surface, this brief moment revealed something deeper: a significant difference in body structure.

What should have been just another backstage moment turned into an internet firestorm.

Fan Reactions: “Khamzat Looks Like His Dad!”

Once the video hit platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit, reactions exploded:

• @Dimetri: “DDP looks genuinely surprised by Chimaev’s size.”

• @KabirKhanMMA: “I had DDP winning before this. Now? Not so sure. Khamzat looks like a full light heavyweight.”

• A popular meme captioned: “Khamzat looks like DDP’s dad.“

• Others speculated that Dricus may be forced to consider moving to Light Heavyweight due to the sheer difference.

These weren’t throwaway comments. They were part of a wider narrative questioning whether Du Plessis had what it takes to physically handle Chimaev.

Breaking Down the Stats: A Matter of Pounds and Muscle Mass

Dricus du Plessis has always been transparent about his walk-around weight. When not in training camp, he tips the scale at 225 lbs (102 kg). To make Middleweight (185 lbs), he cuts roughly 20 kg (about 44 lbs) — a grueling process that tests the limits of human endurance.

Chimaev, by contrast, appears to walk around at a similar weight, but his physique is far more compact and muscular, giving him the appearance of a naturally larger athlete.

So while their actual weights might be close, Chimaev’s frame gives the illusion of dominance, triggering concerns about:

• Clinch control

• Wrestling exchanges

• Ability to absorb damage

• Physical exhaustion over 5 rounds

The Psychology of Size in MMA

In mixed martial arts, perception is often as impactful as reality. Fighters who appear larger often earn a psychological edge even before the first bell. It was this edge that fans believed Chimaev had gained just from that 14-second video.

But Du Plessis had other plans.

Dricus du Plessis’ Response: “They Forgot Who I Am”

Du Plessis did not ignore the noise. In fact, he addressed it head-on in a now viral Instagram Live session:

“They forgot who I am. They forgot that I took out Whittaker, I took out Till. You think a few extra pounds will change that? I cut more weight than any of these guys, and still dominate.”

Then came the kicker. A behind-the-scenes video was leaked showing Du Plessis wrestling and submitting multiple light heavyweights in his gym. The footage was raw, intense, and convincing.

Fans were stunned. It wasn’t just talk. He had receipts.

The Science of the Weight Cut: Weapon or Weakness?

Weight cutting is an integral part of MMA strategy. Fighters like Du Plessis weaponize their cuts, shrinking down to compete in lower divisions while maintaining their power.

In the past, Du Plessis has proven:

• He recovers remarkably well from cuts

• Maintains cardio deep into championship rounds

• Retains knockout power even when drained

His team revealed that for UFC 319, they implemented a new recovery protocol post weigh-in:

• IV rehydration (under guidelines)

• Carb reloading using glucose monitoring

• Cryotherapy and contrast baths for muscle revival

Coach’s Corner: What Dricus Did Differently This Camp

Du Plessis’ head coach, Morne Visser, made it clear that this camp focused heavily on strength adaptation.

“We saw the social media chatter. We saw the video. It didn’t surprise us, but we wanted to make a statement. Dricus has been training with heavier guys all camp. Guys from Light Heavyweight and even Heavyweight came in to spar.”

The coach further explained that Dricus’ output and explosiveness increased even after putting on 15 lbs of water weight post weigh-in.

Tactical Implications for UFC 319

Chimaev is known for:

• High-pressure wrestling

• Early-round aggression

• Physical dominance on the ground

But now, with Dricus displaying:

• Equal or better conditioning

• Superior striking IQ

• Takedown defense honed against larger sparring partners

The narrative has shifted.

This is no longer a fight between the “larger man” and “technical striker.” It’s a chess match between two complete, evolved athletes.

Unexpected Support: Fighters Rally Behind Dricus

Several UFC fighters and analysts chimed in after watching the training footage:

• Michael Bisping: “I was worried about the size. Not anymore. That Du Plessis gym footage is terrifying.”

• Chael Sonnen: “Size means nothing when you’re wrestling tanks in camp. DDP looks dangerous.”

A Champion’s Mindset: Humble, Yet Ruthless

Another moment that won fans over was Du Plessis’ reply to a fan comment:

Fan: “We’re worried about the size difference, champ.”

Du Plessis: “Don’t be. I’m not worried. I’m preparing to finish him.”

That calm, grounded confidence has become a signature trait of Du Plessis. While others get emotional, he calculates.

Fight Week: The Energy Shifts

As UFC 319 approaches, public sentiment has evolved:

• Chimaev is still feared.

• But Du Plessis is now respected at a new level.

The early underdog odds are tightening. The fight has transformed into a true 50/50 event, and much of that change came from how Du Plessis handled fan doubt.

When Critics Fuel Greatness

What started as a concern — a visual difference in physique — became the catalyst for one of the most powerful fight camps in Du Plessis’ career.

He turned doubt into motivation.
He turned a moment of online ridicule into a physical and mental transformation.

And now, at UFC 319, he steps into the cage not just as the champion on paper — but as a psychological giant in the eyes of fans and analysts alike.

Regardless of who wins the belt, Dricus du Plessis has already won something more meaningful: renewed belief from the very people who once doubted him.