As we edge closer to UFC 319, which will see Dricus Du Plessis defend his Middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev, it seems that both fighters have chosen to be respectful, with Du Plessis going as far as to say that Chimaev is a ‘special fighter’. It did seem likely that fierce words would be exchanged between the two; however, it seems that both fighters recognise each other’s abilities while also displaying confidence about their chances of winning.
Speaking on the Ariel Helwani Show, Du Plessis said, “Absolutely (Khamzat is worthy of praise), I think that Khamzat is a special fighter… From the first time I saw him fight, I knew he was gonna be special. There was a stage when he didn’t fight for about two years or so. Listen, he speaks a lot more than he fights, I can tell you that much, too. There was a long period of time where he was calling out every single person… He was calling out welterweights, middleweights, light-heavyweights, but he wasn’t fighting anyone. But there was never ever a stage where I went ‘this guy is overrated’. He is as good a people think… I just think I’m a lot better than people think.”
It is interesting to see a more respectful approach from Du Plessis this time around, especially with his reputation as one of the best trash-talkers in the sport after the build-up to both the Israel Adesanya and the two Sean Strickland fights. Perhaps the respectful demeanour is indicative of more confidence as a champion on his end.
With the fight little more than a week away, anticipation surrounding the bout is ramping up, with MMA fans split on how this one will end. It is certainly one of the hardest titles to call in recent UFC history, with both fighters clearly at the highest level of the sport.
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