Reigning UFC middleweight champion, Dricus Du Plessis, is expected to make his next 185-pound title defense at some point in early 2025. Prior to the UFC 308 pay-per-view (PPV) card, it was expected that former champion, Sean Strickland, would rematch “Stillknocks” after their close decision at UFC 297 back in January.
Then Khamzat Chimaev went and destroyed Robert Whittaker at UFC 308.
During the UFC 308 post-fight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White would not commit to the next opponent for Du Plessis, suggesting that his final decision would be worked out when matchmakers gathered on Tuesday to map out the next moves for all the competitors who went to war last weekend at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Du Plessis, however, appears to favor Chimaev over Strickland.
“Feel really sorry for Rob [Whittaker] he looked super ready but this is the fight game,” the champ posted on Twitter, while also reposting a tweet that called for the “Borz” fight as soon as possible. “Well done on a good performance, Khamzat. That being said, I can’t wait to take your 0.”
Chimaev is undefeated at 14-0 with 12 finishes.
Even if the promotion opts to move forward with Chimaev, questions remain about his ability to answer the call. Strickland, despite his own issues, never has a problem making his fight dates and would likely be ready to compete at a moment’s notice. How much that influences White’s decision remains to be seen.
