Dricus du Plessis wins fight in UFC 312. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India
Kamaru Usman did not spare criticism when designing the ideal path for the current middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), Dricus Du Plessis. The Nigerian said the South African needs to face Khamzat Shimaev e Nassourdine Imavov before considering a jump to light heavyweight (up to 93kg) and a confrontation with Alex Poatán.
“I want to see these two fights: Khamzat Shimaev e Nassourdine Imavov, then he (Du Plessis) goes up. At that point, we would have seen enough. He deserves to go up. But if he goes up, I don't know, it would be blasphemy to bet on him against Alex Poatán", said Kamaru Usman via Pound4Pound Podcast.
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Usman, who previously faced Chimaev in 2023 in a fight marked by a controversial majority decision, argued that Du Plessis still needs to solidify his position in the 84kg category. For him, the current champion must first overcome the most immediate challenges in the division.
The South African, in turn, has already made it clear that his next step is to face Chimaev, considered the number one contender in the division. This stance coincides with Usman's vision, who advocates a 'natural hierarchy' in the sport: beating the best in his own category before seeking superstars in others.
The relationship between Usman and Chimaev also influences the analysis. The Chechen, who beat the Nigerian in 2023, remains undefeated and is expected to face Du Plessis in 2025. If he wins, he would pressure the UFC to schedule him against Poatan — a move that the former champion considers premature.
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