Current UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis is set to defend his title for the first time against former champion Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 on August 17th. This marks Adesanya’s return to the Octagon nearly a year after his defeat by Sean Strickland. While the upcoming fight still has time to unfold, the MMA world is intrigued by Du Plessis’ next move in the promotion. Since joining the UFC, the fighter has exclusively competed in the middleweight division, raising questions about when he will move to the light heavyweight division.

Dricus Du Plessis’ coach, Morne Vissers, recently appeared on the From the Stands podcast, where he addressed the possibility of Du Plessis moving up to a higher weight class. Vissers emphasized that the fighter has been competing in the middleweight division for five years after moving up from welterweight. He explained that they need at least to consider a move to a higher weight class, highlighting the difference between simply weight and maintaining strength at a higher weight.

Vissers noted that Du Plessis already possesses light heavyweight-like strength despite competing at middleweight. He further stated, “He’s very strong. If we decide to make that move, it won’t be sudden one. Like I said, we’ve been at middleweight for five years, so we have to at least defend the belt three times before even thinking it. But there’s a big possibility that’s his future.”

Dricus du Plessis’ move to a higher weight class seems distant at the moment as he is solely focused on defending his title, not just for personal glory but also for his native South Africa, a country often embroiled in conflict. This sense of duty is intensified by the racial questioning he faces from opponents like Israel Adesanya due to his skin color.

Dricus du Plessis aims to defend the title for his country

In January, after defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 297, Dricus du Plessis returned to South Africa with his belt and was warmly welcomed by fans at the airport. Carrying the South African flag alongside his championship belt, du Plessis demonstrated his deep connection to his homeland. Following this patriotic display, du Plessis vowed to defend his title for the first time against Israel Adesanya, declaring his willingness to ‘win or die” in the process.

In a recent interview with ESPN after his workout, du Plessis stated, “The flag represents to me that this is not just my title, it’s the country’s title. It represents the amazing support we’ve been getting.” He emphasized the importance of fans in fighters’ success, saying, “Because without these incredible fans, we don’t have a job or a sport. Every time you get to a fourth or fifth round, your own personal goals and ego aren’t carrying you anymore.” Du Plessis claimed that this mindset drives him forward, even when injured or fatigued.

What are your thoughts on Dricus du Plessis’s coach’s comments? As a fan, would you like to see du Plessis move to the light heavyweight division? Do you think he could succeed there, given the presence of big names like Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka? let us know in the comments below.