Financial, venue issues KO’s plans for Dricus du Plessis’ title defence on SA soil

In a bittersweet turn of events for local fight fans, Dricus du Plessis, the reigning UFC world middleweight champion, has failed in his quest to defend his title on home soil.

During a candid podcast discussion, Du Plessis, who has emerged as a formidable force in the UFC, detailed the challenges currently stymying his wish.

Financial constraints and suitability issues surrounding potential venues that are compliant with UFC standards posed massive problems.

With a potent mix of skill and charisma inside the octagon, Du Plessis has rapidly gained traction in the UFC, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.

The UFC announced Du Plessis will next fight against Russian professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler Khamzat 'Borz' Chimaev.

It will be the main event of UFC 319 on August 16 in Chicago's United Center.

Chimaev has dazzled audiences with his raw talent, boasting an undefeated record with eight consecutive wins in the UFC, six of which were via stoppage.

His remarkable performance at UFC 308, where he dislocated Robert Whittaker's jaw, left spectators awestruck.

More than just an exhilarating fighter, Chimaev has become synonymous with unpredictability.

With a streak of cancellations affecting his bouts, fans are left holding their breath.

The infamous UFC 279 incident, where he missed weight by over seven pounds, serves as a reminder of the fragility surrounding his fight calendar.

Du Plessis has made a name for himself not only in the octagon but also in the realm of social media, trolling his dodgy opponent Chimaev with light-hearted banter in the lead-up to their clash.

The UFC have also taken the precaution of having an opponent, the Russian-born Frenchman Nassourdine Imovich, a top-ranked middleweight contender, on standby for the bout.

Du Plessis cheekily greeted the replacement announcement on Instagram: “Guess I’m fighting Imavov.”

This decision has placed additional pressure on Du Plessis.

He said that naming Chimaev as a challenger will force him to prepare for two potential opponents.

Du Plessis has made no effort to conceal his feelings about his reputation as the dodgy Chimaev’s unpredictability, often utilising social media platforms to troll the worthy contender.