Khamzat Chimaev vs Du Plessis: Underdog meets the juggernaut

CHICAGO: Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis revealed that he initially sought to face undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev in Abu Dhabi, where the latter recently became a United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizen, before the UFC confirmed their highly expected UFC-319 fight for August 16 in Chicago, US.

Venue change linked to visa issues

Du Plessis explained on a show that he had requested the UFC to stage the fight in the Middle East, specifically Abu Dhabi or Saudi Arabia, in order to face Khazmat Chimaev in front of his new home crowd.

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However, the Russian-Emirati’s ongoing difficulties in obtaining a US visa reportedly led to the UFC’s decision to schedule the fight in Chicago.

The upcoming UFC-319 will mark Chimaev’s first US appearance since the UFC-279 in Las Vegas in 2023.

Champion embraces underdog status

Despite being the reigning champion, du Plessis described himself as a long-time underdog who thrives on defying expectations.

Speaking to a local TV station, the South African called Chimaev the toughest opponent he has faced yet. He painted the Russian’s fighting style as ‘aggressive’ and ‘unique’. In du Plessis’s words, this gives him an advantage in to octogen as the Russian’s technique is so ‘effective’.

Preparing for an undefeated challenger

Khamzat Chimaev remains unbeaten at 14-0 in the UFC. The Russian-Emirati reportedly been working intensively to improve his cardio and conditioning; training with Sam Calavitta, the conditioning coach known for his work with former UFC champion TL Dillashaw.

Confidant ahead of the title defence

The South African dismissed the notion of Chimaev as the “boogeyman” of the middleweight division. He proclaimed that he is the true force to watch out for in the octogen.

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du Plessis pledged to defy the odds once again and “shock the world” with a victory, continuing his track record of overcoming tough opponents.

UFC-319 overview