Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis is the fight everyone in the MMA world is buzzing about for UFC International Fight Week on June 28. Many believe this is the perfect main event title fight—and Dana White also agrees, though the official confirmation is still on hold.
However, things took a turn when reports from reliable sources suggested that du Plessis might be injured and could miss UFC 317. Hearing that, Chimaev’s bold four-word reaction instantly brought energy and buzz to the MMA community.
Khamzat Chimaev Dismisses Injury Rumors Surrounding UFC 317 Title Fight
Earlier this week, UFC insider Kevin Iole published an article on his website. There, he was discussing future options for Islam Makhachev at the top of the lightweight division. In the article, he wrote, “I’m hearing Dricus du Plessis is injured, and though there has been no confirmation, if that’s accurate, a bout between du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev couldn’t headline IFW.”
He also suggested that Islam Makhachev could be a potential addition to UFC 317 if the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev fight falls through. This injury rumor actually started to surface on Friday evening. As of now, Du Plessis and his team remain silent about it. This raises doubts about the validity of the rumor.
🚨🚨 Khamzat Chimaev may have just confirmed today’s rumours about DDP being injured and their fight being OFF
“This guy biggest bullsh*t”
💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/GQwcwt86Og
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) April 20, 2025
Khamzat Chimaev certainly doesn’t believe the report either. Taking to social media, Chimaev dismissed the rumors by writing, “This guy biggest bulls—.” His four-word reaction shows he isn’t convinced by the talk of Dricus du Plessis’ injury, possibly hinting that he believes the champion is avoiding the fight or trying to create unnecessary controversy.
Since the Russian star didn’t mention any names, it’s also possible that the four-word message was directed at Kevin Iole, the journalist behind the report. Chimaev’s reaction suggests he’s confident that this highly anticipated fight will still happen during International Fight Week.
What Happens If Dricus Du Plessis Is Out?
If Du Plessis can’t fight, the UFC may need to change the main event for UFC 317. One option is an interim title fight, where Chimaev could face another top contender. Former champion Sean Strickland is still a strong choice, and Caio Borralho, ranked #6 in the division, has already called for a fight with Chimaev.
Borralho has been outspoken about stepping in if du Plessis is out. He even tweeted, “Khamzat said yes! The only thing that makes sense is the Interim belt! This fight is gonna be bigger than him vs Dricus! Marks my words.”
Caio Borralho in 2022 was asked who was the toughest guy he’s trained with
“The Natural” responded with Khamazt Chimaev 😳
“He’s very good at wrestling he goes hard all the rounds I think he’s one of the hardest training to do” pic.twitter.com/YQjiNnpuJr
— Kevin (@realkevink) April 21, 2025
However, this drama is nothing new for the Russian fighter. Even with an undefeated record, he has faced several delays due to injuries, flight cancellations, and weight issues. His dominant victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 seemed to place him next in line for a title shot, but now uncertainty has started to loom again.
Subscribe
