Dricus Du Plessis walked into UFC 312 with a point to prove—and he did just that with a commanding performance against Sean Strickland. In their highly anticipated 185lbs title rematch, the South African showcased his evolution as a fighter, neutralizing Strickland’s signature Philly Shell boxing style and securing a dominant unanimous decision victory. From the opening bell, Du Plessis looked sharper, faster, and more calculated than ever before.

Unlike the wild, goofy brawling style he had been known for in past fights, ‘Stillknocks’ fought with precision and patience. He landed powerful strikes and constantly kept Strickland guessing. By the time the final horn sounded, there was no doubt about the winner. The judges’ scorecards reflected Du Plessis’ dominance, with scores of 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46. It was a statement performance—one that cemented him as the rightful middleweight king. However, his next challenge will not be an easy one as he is all set to face division boogeyman Khamzat Chimaev next.

The Chechen juggernaut is fresh off a dominating victory against Robert Whittaker and will look to clinch the title next. Amidst the excitement, former UFC champion Michael Bisping took to his YouTube channel and analyzed the future fights for the champion. He said, “So who does he [Dricus] fight next? Well of course Khamzat Chimaev is out there. Khamzat Chimaev was out there and he tweeted this he goes biggest bu—hit is this fight. Okay so talking a bit of s–t. Probably about Dricus Du Plessis because a lot of people say that his style doesn’t work and he’s not that good. And it looks awkward and it’s an off-feet rhythm.” 

However, Bisping believes the champion’s style is undeniably effective, stating, “Well, just ask Sean Strickland. It’s pretty bloody effective but so is the wrestling of Khamzat Chimaev.”

‘The Count’ also issued a warning to the South African champion, adding, “That has got to be the next fight and of course, we saw what he did to Robert Whittaker. And apparently what he used to do to Sean Strickland. So that’s not going to be an easy fight for anybody.”

Despite the challenges and dangers of fighting an elite grappler like Chimaev, the champ showed no hesitation in welcoming the challenge of the Chechen Wolf. During the UFC 312 post-fight presser, the South African said emphatically, “Khamzat is next! I wanna make sure that this belt, the middleweight title. That there is no question that I am the GOAT!” And it seems that former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub also shares the same sentiment as Du Plessis regarding the challenge of Chimaev. Let’s see what he had to say!

Brendan Schaub backs Dricus Du Plessis for his potential clash against Chimaev

Chimaev wasted no time stirring the pot following Du Plessis’ win, taking to social media to express both boredom and a veiled challenge to the champion. ‘Borz’ has been vocal about his desire to claim UFC gold, and with his relentless wrestling, suffocating pressure, and unbeaten record, many believe he could be Du Plessis’ toughest test yet.

Stylistically, this fight has all the makings of a war. Du Plessis has proven he can hang with the best, blending striking, durability, and an underrated ground game to wear down opponents. However, Chimaev’s grappling is on another level, and if he gets his hands on Du Plessis, it could be a nightmare scenario for the champion.

But Brendan Schaub doesn’t quite feel the same. He took to his The Fighter and the Kid podcast and while speaking to co-host and comedian Bryan Callen, he said, “I think DDP mollyw–ps Khamzat, too. I think he is a nightmare for Khamzat.” As the saying goes, there are levels to this game—and when it comes to grappling, ‘Borz’ operates on an entirely different level.

While nothing has been officially announced, the UFC could have a blockbuster matchup on its hands. A showdown between Du Plessis and Chimaev wouldn’t just be a title fight—it would be a battle between two relentless forces determined to impose their will. How do you think Dricus Du Plessis will fare against Khamzat Chimaev? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.