The true character is demonstrated in moments of adversity, and Dricus du Plessis showed no less than class after losing the medium weight title against Khamzat Chimaev in UFC 319.
Du Plessis (23-3 MMA, 9-1 UFC) was found defenseless for almost all 25 minutes of Saturday's main fight at the United Center in Chicago, With Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) suffocating it successfully and, outside a scare in the final round, dominating to a unanimous decision for gold.
It was not the action that du plessis wanted or expected, But he gave Chimaev all the credit for his overwhelming grip capacity.
«It has incredible control on the top. It's like a blanket. It was not a matter of strength. It was not so physical, it was almost as if I knew what your next movement would be. He succeeded without using too much force and I had to decide: I put myself on your back or put it to him? In the end I tried, I had it on your back. I could almost savor the victory, but I thank Khamzat.
The result in UFC 319 marked the first defeat of Du Plessis since October 2018, before starting his career as a promoter. His career to the top of the division with two title defenses was solid, but now he must face a new reality.
Du plessis promised to improve after the fight and return better to try to get a second reign for the title, But for now, he gently paid tribute to the new champion.
«He deserves it one hundred percent. He won with justice tonight. It was better tonight and I will recover my belt. But for now it is his and deserves it … I will return stronger and better than ever.
