Dricus du Plessis, the newly crowned UFC Middleweight Champion, has taken the mixed martial arts world by storm.
Dricus du Plessis: Things to know about the UFC Middleweight champion
In his latest conquest at UFC 297, Du Plessis faced off against Sean Strickland for the UFC Middleweight Championship.
The fight was a nail-biter, culminating in Du Plessis winning by split decision.
The scorecard read 48-47, 48-47, and 47-48, reflecting just how closely contested this championship bout was.
But who exactly is this formidable fighter from Pretoria, South Africa?
Here are five things about Dricus that might surprise you:
Early Beginnings in Martial Arts
Dricus started his martial arts journey at a very young age.
He began training in judo when he was just five years old, transitioning to wrestling at 12, and then to kickboxing at 14.
His early exposure to various combat sports laid a solid foundation for his future in mixed martial arts.
Academic Pursuits vs. Fighting Career
Du Plessis didn’t always have his sights set solely on the fighting ring.
He was a student of agricultural economics at the University of Pretoria, following in the footsteps of his father.
However, his passion for fighting led him to drop out during his final year to fully focus on his career in mixed martial arts.
A Record of Dominance in Multiple Disciplines:
Before making a name for himself in the UFC, Du Plessis had already amassed a significant track record.
He is a former KSW Welterweight Champion and a two-time EFC Middleweight and former EFC Welterweight Champion.
This diverse championship history showcases his versatile fighting skills and adaptability across different weight classes.
Overcoming Physical Challenges
In April 2023, Du Plessis underwent surgery to correct a breathing impairment in his nose.
According to his coach, Morne Visser, he had been competing in the UFC with “only 8% oxygen” intake through his nostrils.
The fact that he performed at such a high level despite this limitation is a testament to his determination and physical prowess.
A Globally Recognised Kickboxer
Du Plessis isn’t just a mixed martial artist; he’s also an accomplished kickboxer. He became a WAKO World Champion in K-1 style kickboxing.
This achievement highlights his striking capabilities, making him a well-rounded threat in the octagon.
Dricus du Plessis’ journey to the top of the UFC Middleweight division is a story of dedication, skill, and overcoming challenges. From his early days in judo to his triumphant rise in the UFC, he has proven to be a formidable force in the world of mixed martial arts.
