Analysis: What’s next for Khamzat Chimaev?

Dricus du Plessis

Dricus du Plessis. Photo via YouTube

UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is likely to face Sean Strickland in early 2025, but expressed a desire to face Khamzat after seeing him stop Robert Whittaker.

“Feel really sorry for Rob he looked super ready but this is the fight game well done on a good performance Khamzat. That being said I can’t wait to take your 0,” du Plessis wrote on social media.

The champion is known for being a well-rounded and physically strong fighter, with wins against Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland and Robert Whittaker on his resume.

When asked about Du Plessis’ grappling, however, Khamzat dismissed it.

“How I did with this guy, Rob, and how he done?” Chimaev said at the UFC 308 post-fight press conference. “Rob took him down, so if Rob took him down, there is salam alaikum (against me).”