UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis agrees with the notion that he can drag Khamzat Chimaev into deep waters. After defeating Sean Strickland a second time at UFC 312, Du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC) is ready to defend his title against Chimaev next.

UFC's annual International Fight Week celebration has undoubtedly treated du Plessis well. His breakout win over former champion Robert Whittaker came at the 2023 edition of the event, but even before that, du Plessis' first International Fight Week in 2022 resulted in a successful night against Brad Tavares.

UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis didn’t hesitate to sign the dotted line for his UFC 312 rematch with Sean Strickland. But as negotiations progressed for his next fight after defeating Israel Adesanya, du Plessis hoped the matchmakers would give Khamzat Chimaev the title shot instead of running it back with his former rival.