Dricus du Plessis e Khamzat Shimaev face each other for the first time. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC Brazil
There are just a few hours left before he steps into the octagon to try to defend his middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) for the third time, Dricus Du Plessis seems to be aware of the size of the challenge that will be measuring forces with Khamzat Shimaev in the main fight of UFC 319. Shortly after making weight and confirming the fight this Friday (15), the champion spoke about his expectations for the fight on the official Ultimate program during the official weigh-in.
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In conversation with the former champion Chris Weidman, the South African was confident of a good performance against the Chechen and recognized his opponent's improvement in terms of physical conditioning, in addition to stating that he wanted to measure his strength against the best possible version of his opponent.
"Obviously, he made the changes because he knew there was a problem, and I'm glad he did. That's what's needed at this level. I want the best Khamzat, I want him to say he's the best he's ever been, because I want to beat the best he's ever been," he said.
Dricus Du Plessis Welcomes Khamzat Shimaev's cardio changes and vows to beat him at his peak
"Obviously, he made the changes because he knew there was a problem, and I'm happy he did. That's what it takes at this level. I want the best Khamzat, I want him to say that he's… pic.twitter.com/eK0a9xKRCF
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) August 15, 2025
Du Plessis and Chimaev are undefeated in the UFC
Dricus du Plessis e Khamzat Shimaev face each other this Saturday (16) at UFC 319. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER FIGHTS
The stars of this Saturday's event (16) are in great form in the category. Chimaev has eight wins in the world's largest MMA organization, with victories in both the middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) and welterweight (up to 77,1 kg), in addition to being undefeated as a professional athlete. Since his debut in 2020, Borz has been seen as one of the great promises of the entire company.
Du Plessis has nine UFC wins. The South African has left with his hand raised in all nine of his fights inside the world's most famous octagon. After winning Sean Strickland and win the title in January of last year, the fighter also won the rematch with the American and submitted Israel adesanya in their following duels.
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