Du Plessis questions Anderson Silva's achievements and says he's close to becoming the greatest middleweight in history

Dricus du Plessis aims to overthrow Anderson Silva as the greatest middleweight in history (Photo: Montage/SUPER LUTAS)

About to defend his middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) for the third time, Dricus Du Plessis does not hide his admiration for Anderson Silva, whom he considers the greatest name in the history of the division. Even so, the South African believes that a victory over Khamzat Shimaev No. UFC 319 will put him very close to assuming the position of greatest in the history of the category, even with a much smaller number of title defenses.

Anderson reigned from 2006 to 2013, racking up 10 consecutive defenses and cementing his name as an MMA legend. Du Plessis admits he's unlikely to repeat this feat, but argues that the quality of opponents faced in the current era may outweigh the number of defenses in defining the greatest middleweight in history.

See too

Parrumpinha praises Charles do Bronx's performance at UFC Rio, but criticizes the fight: 'Too early'

Monster? Chimaev impresses by lifting Cormier with ease ahead of UFC 319

“In terms of number of title defenses, for sure (Anderson is ahead). I think Chris Weidman It's incredible. I'm a big, big fan,” Du Plessis began, responding to recent statements made by the American during the 'Media Day' of UFC 319. “But when you look at the number of saves and a guy like Anderson Silva, for example… I think that Anderson Silva is the GOAT because he has always been a hero to me.”

The South African stressed that the context of each era needs to be taken into account when evaluating the historical record of champions.

"We also need to look at the era in which these title defenses took place. Who were these guys facing? Were they fighting someone with a part-time job? Or full-time athletes? Was the sport as developed as it is today?" he asked.

Despite his confidence, Du Plessis assured that he does not intend to belittle the achievements of the legends who preceded him, but reinforced that the duel against Chimaev will be decisive for his historical projection.

"I can't take anything away from these guys. I'm just saying that in today's era of MMA, that many defenses aren't always possible. Today, I still have a long way to go to be considered the greatest of all time, or even the greatest middleweight in history. After this fight, I'll be very close to that. I'm getting very close," he concluded.