The OR Tambo International Airport transformed into a euphoric stage as UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis touched down on home soil.
Watch: Dricus du Plessis homecoming at OR Tambo Airport
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Fresh off his historic victory over Sean Strickland in Canada, du Plessis was greeted by an exuberant crowd, eager to celebrate their champion’s triumphant return.
Upon his arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, the air buzzed with excitement. It was a moment of pride for South African sports, as fans, family, and friends gathered, forming a sea of support for their national hero. “Welcome home, king,” echoed through the terminal, marking a fitting tribute to a fighter who has not only conquered the UFC but also the hearts of his compatriots.
Dricus du Plessis, the first South African to clinch the UFC Middleweight Championship, made a victorious entry, draped in the glory of his achievement.
The win against Strickland at UFC 297, which took place at the Scotiabank Arena in Ontario, Canada, was a nail-biting affair decided by a split decision, 48-47, tilting in the South African’s favour.
This victory cements his undefeated streak in the UFC, a journey that began in October 2020 and has seen him rack up six successive wins.
Interviewed by a reporter from eNCA at the airport, du Plessis shared his exhilaration,
“I feel incredible. Wow! Thank you, South Africa. This feels absolutely amazing. This moment couldn’t be this special without all these people being here. This makes it all worth it.”
Du Plessis’s journey to becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion is a tale of unwavering dedication, immense skill, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
His rise in the UFC has been meteoric, marked by a series of impressive performances that have captured the imagination of fight fans worldwide. His dominance in the ring, characterised by his tactical acumen and physical prowess, has been a source of national pride for South Africa.
As du Plessis navigated through the crowd, embracing the adulation of his supporters, social media buzzed with congratulatory messages and expressions of pride.
Comments ranged from “This is beautiful, welcome home King” to “Congrats CHAMPION!!!”, encapsulating the collective joy of a nation.
Watch some of the footage from the Dricus du Plessis homecoming event ar OR Tambo Airport below: