Dricus du Plessis

Dricus du Plessis: The Rising South African UFC Middleweight Fighter

Dricus "Stillknocks" du Plessis, born on January 14, 1994 in Hatfield, Pretoria, South Africa, is one of the most promising fighters in the UFC middleweight division. Du Plessis is known for his explosive power, versatile fighting style, and impressive finishing ability. With an impressive record of knockouts and submissions, he has quickly made a name for himself in the UFC and is on his way to the top of the division.

Early Life and Career

Dricus du Plessis began his combat sports career in South Africa, where he developed into a versatile fighter with a strong background in kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He made his professional MMA debut in 2013, initially fighting in regional promotions such as *Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC)* in South Africa and *KSW* in Europe. Du Plessis became a two-time champion in both the welter and middleweight divisions of EFC and KSW, confirming his potential as an elite fighter.

Du Plessis won and successfully defended the EFC welterweight title before moving to the European scene and winning the KSW middleweight title. His dominant performances in these promotions caught the attention of the UFC, leading to his debut on the world stage.

UFC Career

Dricus du Plessis made his UFC debut in October 2020 at UFC Fight Night 179, where he faced Markus Perez. Du Plessis won the fight impressively via knockout in the first round, making an immediate impact in the middleweight division.

He followed this up with more impressive performances, including a knockout victory over Trevin Giles at UFC 264 in July 2021. Du Plessis continued his rise with a victory over Brad Tavares at UFC 276, where he earned a dominant unanimous decision victory over the seasoned veteran. The victory showcased his versatility and stamina in a gruelling three-round battle.

One of his biggest wins came in December 2022 at UFC 282, where he defeated Darren Till via submission (rear-naked choke) in the third round. The fight cemented du Plessis as a serious challenger in the middleweight division and established him as a fighter with title-challenge potential.

Style and Technique

Dricus du Plessis is a powerful and versatile fighter who is dangerous both standing and on the ground. His background in kickboxing makes him a formidable striker, with explosive combinations and powerful kicks that often result in knockouts. Du Plessis is known for his ability to constantly pressure his opponents and create opening chances for finishes.

In addition, du Plessis is also skilled in grappling and submissions. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills make him dangerous on the ground, where he is able to quickly establish dominant positions and force submissions.

Du Plessis is particularly effective at adapting his strategy based on his opponent, and his versatility allows him to win in a variety of ways.

Future Ambitions

Determined to continue his push into the upper echelons of the middleweight division, Dricus du Plessis has set his sights on the UFC middleweight title. With his impressive winning streak and all-around skills, he has the potential to become a serious contender for the title.

His focus now is on continuing to improve his game and defeating elite competitors in the division. Du Plessis has ambitions to represent South Africa at the highest level and make history as one of the first South African UFC champions.

Conclusion

Dricus du Plessis is a rising force in the UFC middleweight division, known for his explosive fighting style and impressive finishing ability. With a strong background in both striking and grappling, du Plessis remains a fighter to watch as he continues his rise to the top of the division. His determination and versatility make him a serious challenger for the future of the UFC middleweight title.