Dricus du Plessis defines Khamzat Chimaev as 'special', praises rival, but guarantees: 'I'm better'

Dricus Du Plessis praised Khamzat Shimaev before the UFC 319(Photo: Montage/SUPER FIGHTS)

On the eve of putting the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) on the line for the third time, against Khamzat Shimaev, in the main fight of the UFC 319, Dricus du Plessis demonstrates full confidence to defend the title against Khamzat ShimaevThe South African sees his opponent as a real threat, but he is not intimidated and remains confident in his own superiority.

In a recent appearance on the 'Ariel Helwani Show,' Du Plessis highlighted his rival's talent and dismissed the narrative that Chimaev is overrated. The champion, however, took the opportunity to criticize the Chechen-born Swede, particularly for his long inactivity and constant provocations outside the Octagon.

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"No (he's not overrated). Yes (he deserves all the praise). I think Khamzat is a special fighter. The first time I saw him fight, I knew he was going to be special, for sure. There was a time when he didn't fight for almost two years. He talks more than he fights, I can guarantee that. He challenged everyone, and that started to really irritate me. He challenged welterweights, middleweights, and light heavyweights, but he never fought anyone. But at no point did I see him as overrated," said the champion.

In Du Plessis's opinion, Chimaev's abilities are on par with public opinion of the Chechen athlete. The South African, however, believes he's ready for the challenge, as he claims he's even better than people believe.

“He’s as good as people think, but I’m much better than people think,” he concluded.

With Dricus du Plessis e Khamzat Shimaev in the main fight, the UFC 319 will take place on August 16th in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The event features four Brazilians on the card: Carlos Prates, Jessica Stacker, Carlos Diego Ferreira e Edson Barboza.