About to face Khamzat Chimaev, Dricus Du Plessis chooses the toughest opponent of his career

Dricus Du Plessis in entry into the UFC 312. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

One of the biggest names in the UFC today, Dricus Du Plessis can successfully defend the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) for the third time by measuring strength with the undefeated Khamzat Shimaev in the main fight of UFC 319 on the night of August 16. Over the course of nine appearances at the world's biggest MMA event, one athlete in particular stands out as the most skilled the fighter has ever faced.

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When asked in an interview with 'Betway' last Monday (4) about the best opponents he has had the opportunity to share the octagon with, the South African was categorical in choosing Israel adesanya as the most difficult opponent to fight.

"I have to say Adesanya was the best guy I've faced. He can hit you with anything, at any time. If you watch our fight, it was a hell of a fight. It was a tough night at the office for both of us," said the champion.

Dricus Du Plessis names Israel adesanya as the best opponent he ever faced:

“I have to say Adesanya was the best guy I faced. He can catch you with anything, anytime.

If you gonna watch [our] fight. It was a hell of a fight. It was a tough night in the office for both of us.”… pic.twitter.com/AQtHUuvP5L

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) August 5, 2025

The fight with Adesanya was Du Plessis's first defense, in August 2024. On that occasion, the South African won with a rear-naked choke in the fourth round. Since then, he has defeated Sean Strickland for the second time in February this year, in UFC 312.

Dricus du Plessis x Israel adesanya made the main fight of the UFC 305. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC

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Dricus Du Plessis could make UFC history

Dricus du Plessis is the UFC middleweight champion. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC News

Despite being the champion of the category and sharing fourth place in the pound-for-pound ranking with Alexandre pantoja, a victory against Chimaev could change the course of Du Plessis's career. The Chechen is undefeated in 14 professional fights and is coming off a quick submission victory against Robert whittaker in October of last year.

The challenger is one of the most popular fighters in the sport, and with another successful defense, the South African could become one of the biggest names in the sport today.