Highly anticipated title bout between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev may headline UFC’s International Fight Week as per reports. The event could take place in June 2025 for the middleweight championship. Du Plesis will be defending his title and Chimaev aiming to get the big win and continue his unbeaten MMA streak of 14-0. So, the contest is important from the perspective of both the players.
Chimaev sealed the position by stunning submission victory in the first round against former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 308. On the other hand, du Plessis secured his second title defence by defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 312. “Stillknocks” has publicly announced that he would’ve preferred fighting “Borz” in his last outing. With a record of 14-0, many are arguing a slight edge in favour of Chimaev. Bo Nickel acknowledged Chimaev’s talent and said:
“Tough fight,” Nickal said. “I think that Dricus has the size. He probably has a little better cardio. I think striking is pretty even. I would say Khamzat obviously has a massive advantage in grappling. All that considered, I think I would give the edge to Khamzat because of that wrestling advantage.”
All these were speculations as the official announcement regarding this clash is yet to be announced and fans are eagerly waiting for this clash in the middleweight division.
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How do Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev perceive the upcoming fight?
Hopefully in June of this year we will see these two fighters clash for the middleweight title and eagerly expected battles in UFC history. Both shared their opinions and views regarding their possible title clash.
Dricus Du Plessis Confident abput defending his title
After defeating Sean Strickland in the title match at UFC 312, he desired to fight Chimaev and considered it as the “next logical step”. Du Plessis said, fight with “Borz” will test his reign better than a rematch with Strickland. Chimaev’s grappling technique, powerful and aggressive fighting style and his first round win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 is enough to consider him as the top contender for the title match.
Dricus Du Plessis clearly states his aim for a light heavyweight title shot. In the long run, it wants to dominate the multiple divisions. As he previously secured wins over elite players like Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, and Sean Strickland, a win over Chimaev will increase his chances for the title shot. Also, He desired to make South Africa as venue for the UFC events.
In terms of strategy, the South African can’t ignore Chimaev’s grappling technique and stated he will come up with a plan and “outwrestle” “Borz” in their title match. Chimaev has a 14-0 streak but he believes that Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman had chances where they could drift the match in their favour.
Khamzat Chimaev’s Views For His Title Match
Having an undefeated career in MMA (14-0), Chimaev is a fan favourite for the title match at UFC 300 between him and Du Plessis. He states, Du Plessis is not that worth watching against Strickland and having confidence will overshadow both players in the ring.
Chimaev has an undefeated record in his favour but his lung issue has some concern. He is not regularly active in the ring as the last fight against Robert Whittaker is only the fifth appearance for the last four years. He was assured to shift the gear and keep the momentum and maximise it.
Many times, critics of the Chechen fighter doubt his ranking and his activity. Considering him as a coward in big matches. To which Chimaev attributes this as it depends on many factors which are beyond his control.
Everyone is excited about this title match and soon Dana White will officially announce regarding the schedule of the bout.
Vijay Suyal 
Reddaveni Saisneha