UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis has put to rest any concerns about an injury that was rumored to have delayed his highly anticipated fight with Khamzat Chimaev. There had been speculations circulating that Du Plessis was dealing with an injury that would prevent the fight from taking place during the International Fight Week at the end of June. However, Du Plessis took to his Instagram to clarify the situation, firmly denying the rumors and setting the record straight.
The fighter addressed the situation head-on, acknowledging the flurry of rumors and stories that had been making the rounds, particularly regarding a supposed shin injury. “Okay so everyone had their opinions and rumors and stories about a shin break and injuries etc,” Du Plessis wrote. “I found it all very entertaining, unfortunately none of it is true.” He made it clear that he had never suffered such an injury and that the fight was never officially booked for June.
Du Plessis further explained that there had been discussions between him and the UFC regarding his next fight, but the June fight date had never been signed. He clarified that he hadn’t pulled out of any fight and emphasized his position as the champion. “I am the champion, I know when I fight, you as a contender just show up when we tell you to,” he stated, underscoring his readiness for the fight. His confidence and no-nonsense approach left little room for doubt about his condition or his commitment to his upcoming bout.
In his post, Du Plessis hinted that an official fight announcement would be coming soon. While the details were kept under wraps, it is widely speculated that he will indeed face Khamzat Chimaev, as the two have been linked to a showdown for some time. However, the exact date remains uncertain, and it appears that the much-anticipated battle will not take place during International Fight Week as initially expected.
The middleweight champion’s post provided some much-needed clarity for fans and the MMA community. It is certainly good news that Du Plessis isn’t injured and is fully prepared for his next fight. His statement reassured fans that he is in fighting shape and ready to continue his dominant reign in the middleweight division.
As for Chimaev, the fight has been highly anticipated, with both fighters being among the most talked-about contenders in the UFC. Chimaev’s rise in the UFC has been meteoric, and a showdown between him and Du Plessis would be a fight that fans have been eagerly waiting for. While the exact timeline for the fight is still unclear, the champion’s comments suggest that it will happen in the near future, potentially setting up an explosive clash that will undoubtedly captivate the MMA world.
In the meantime, fans will have to stay tuned for the official announcement, as Du Plessis and the UFC finalize the details for what could be one of the most exciting middleweight matchups in recent history. The fight may not happen during the expected June timeframe, but it seems certain that Du Plessis is ready to defend his title and take on all challengers, including Chimaev, when the time is right.
