UFC title contender claims Du Plessis self-sabotaged in Chimaev bout

Dricus du Plessis is a former UFC middleweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India

Former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg.) Dricus Du Plessis divided opinions after facing Khamzat Shimaev No. UFC 319. For some, the South African shone for his race and willpower, while for others, as anthony hernandez for example, the athlete self-sabotaged himself in a strategy used to try to stop the 'Wolf' in the octagon.

Title contender and currently ranked sixth in the division, 'Fluffy' didn't mince words when criticizing Du Plessis's performance in his title defense. Despite criticizing his rival, Hernandez acknowledged Chimaev's merits in dominating his opponent.

See too

Loudmouth sees Islam Makhachev as favorite against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322

Natália Silva refuses new fight before title fight and criticizes UFC's choice: 'I'm next'

Last-minute withdrawal! Frenchman leaves UFC Paris after death in family, Brazilian loses fight

Dricus du Plessis after defeat to Khamzat Shimaev. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @dricusduplessis

"I was surprised until I started seeing what DDP was doing. It's like, you're doing all this bullshit from a strong, explosive guy. That bullshit doesn't work against good fighters, like they can flow with that bullshit. So DDP kind of got screwed by that, and then Khazmat did a really good job keeping the pressure on him, keeping him in his hands, making it so he couldn't get up, and I mean, that's a really high level from Khazmat," Hernandez told MMA Fighting.

Afterwards, Hernandez admitted that he found the fight dull and highlighted his intention to be able to measure his strength against the champion if he wins. Ridder's Reinier in his next Octagon appearance, scheduled for October 18, UFC Vancouver.

"But watching it as a fan and enjoying the blood and stuff, like people breaking each other and mixing it up, it was kind of boring, but that's just my opinion. I'm a fighter too. So, I mean, I usually try to be in charge, and I've been there myself, when you're a little hurt and you have to do what you have to do to win. So, I understand, but I'm looking forward to fighting that guy. Right now, I have a few more things to prove, so I'll prove a point, and then whatever happens, will happen," he concluded.

anthony hernandez want to face Khamzat Shimaev in the UFC. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS Montage

Known for his strong grappling skills, Hernandez has been surprising with dominant performances. His latest victim was Roman Dolidze, which was finished by Fluffy with a rear naked choke.