Dricus Du Plessis reveals he's in the best shape of his career ahead of facing Kamaru Usman in the UFC.

Du Plessis focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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Under pressure after losing the belt to Khamzat Shimaev, Dricus Du Plessis will have the chance to put his name back in the title race in UFC OklahomaOn July 18th, the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) faces Kamaru Usman, who is moving up a weight class after historic years in the welterweight division (up to 77kg). The South African stated that he is in the best physical shape of his career.

Confident ahead of the fight, Du Plessis made it clear that he doesn't intend to allow Usman to show his best form. Although he acknowledged his opponent's quality, the former champion stated that he will frustrate the Nigerian's plans to return to title contention. The duel represents a chance to erase the memory of the tough defeat suffered against Chimaev last August and prove that he remains one of the top names in the division.

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“I expect him to come with his usual physicality. I’m the most physical guy in the division. I know Kamaru will bring out the best in me. We made sure I’m in the best shape of my life. He has the motivation to win this fight, get a title shot, and retire with an incredible career, but I’m not going to let that happen,” said the former middleweight champion in an interview with the Fight Forecast channel on YouTube.

Despite his confidence, Du Plessis knows he will face one of the most complete athletes in recent UFC history. At 39 years old, Usman is still considered one of the most efficient wrestlers in the organization and sees the move up to middleweight as the perfect opportunity to put his name back in the title race and join a select group of champions in two weight classes.

In the South African's view, however, his rival's experience will not be enough to neutralize his aggressive style. Known for his constant pressure, physical strength, and ability to maintain an intense pace for five rounds, the fighter believes he will be able to impose his game from the start and turn the fight into a physical battle, precisely the scenario in which he believes he has the advantage.

A decisive moment for Dricus and Kamaru.

UFC officially announces Du Plessis vs. Usman fight. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

The confrontation also represents a decisive moment for both fighters. While Dricus Du Plessis tries to prove that defeat for Khamzat Shimaev It was just a stumble, and it continues to belong to the elite of the midfield. Kamaru Usman He seeks to show that he can still compete at a high level even after permanently moving up a weight class and earning the opportunity to fight for the belt in a second weight class.

Whoever emerges victorious will take an important step towards the middleweight belt, while the loser will be further from a title opportunity. Therefore, the main event of UFC Oklahoma It could redefine the future of the division.