South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis dethroned as Chimaev claims UFC middleweight title

It seems like it just wasn’t South Africa’s sporting weekend. 

On the cricketing front, the Proteas lost the T20I series in a heartbreaking last ball loss to Australia. In rugby, the Wallabies walloped the Bokke in Johannesburg, and then, in addition to all of this, Chechen-born MMA superstar Khamzat Chimaev was crowned the new UFC Middleweight champion of the world, ending South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis’ nine-fight UFC winning streak. 

The highly anticipated MMA clash took place at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on Saturday night, August 16, 2025.

Chimaev secured a comprehensive unanimous decision victory (50-44 on all three scorecards), showcasing a dominant display of elite grappling and wrestling that Du Plessis seemingly had no answer for. 

From the opening seconds, Du Plessis was on the canvas, as Chimaev secured early takedowns and maintained top control, restricting the South African’s movement and breathing with effective crucifix positions. 

For extended periods, Chimaev had Du Plessis in these controlling positions, landing strikes to the head, though at close range, they inflicted minimal damage.

Despite Du Plessis’s attempts, including a trademark high kick in round two, Chimaev consistently defended and transitioned to his opponent’s back, demonstrating high-level wrestling and impressive wrist control.

Chimaev maintained dominance 

Pundits had suggested that Du Plessis needed to survive the initial rounds to implement his pressure game, but he failed to gain control, with Chimaev maintaining dominance throughout. By the start of round three, Chimaev had already secured six takedowns, and while Du Plessis showed resilience in defending constant rear-naked choke threats, he was largely on the defensive.

In a moment of respite in round four, referee Marc Goddard stood the fighters up, but Chimaev quickly secured another takedown. Between rounds four and five, a seemingly fatigued Du Plessis told his corner, “I’ve got him,” while his coach, Morné Visser, appeared to be without a clear plan. 

Chimaev’s incredible wrestling and grappling continued to dictate the pace. Although Du Plessis managed a brief reversal and attempted a guillotine choke, it was ultimately unsuccessful.

Chimaev’s performance was statistically outstanding, as he landed a record-breaking 529 strikes, surpassing Max Holloway's previous UFC record. His plus-484 striking differential also set a new record.

After the fight, a respectful Chimaev stated, “Massive respect to Dricus, he was the only guy who called my name out, he is a real Lion, and African Lion, thank you for taking the fight, brother.”

I will be back ... stronger

A dejected but classy Du Plessis conceded, “All credit to Khamzat. He beat me fair and square”. 

Describing Chimaev's style, Du Plessis said, “To describe his style, it’s like a blanket wrapped around you”. He added, “In that last round, I went for it, and almost had it. I could taste the victory, but it did not happen; he deserved it. 

“He is the champion, and I will be back stronger and better than ever.”

In a heartfelt address to his supporters back home, Du Plessis offered an apology, saying, “To everybody in South Africa, I am sorry for letting you down. We will come back stronger”.