Former UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis has outlined his plan for a comeback to the Octagon, targeting a surprising April return as he aims to reclaim the title he lost to Khamzat Chimaev. The South African fighter, known as "DDP," has not competed since August 2025, when he dropped the belt to Chimaev in a lopsided bout that saw the Russian dominate for a decision victory.
Du Plessis Hungry for Redemption and Title Return
In an interview with Fight Forecast on Wednesday, Du Plessis expressed his eagerness to get back into action, stating he is ready for an April fight card, potentially in Miami. While no opponent or contract has been confirmed, the 32-year-old made it clear he is open to facing anyone, but his preference is a rematch with Chimaev to redeem his loss.
"Absolutely hungry to get the title back," Du Plessis said. "For me, we needed to fix some things, obviously, and I've spent some time now doing that. I'll be ready for April. I would love to be on that April card, that Miami card. There's no opponent yet, there's no contract yet. We don't have any of that, but whoever, let's go."
Focus on the Next Fight and Title Aspirations
Du Plessis emphasized that his next bout is the most important of his life, vowing to win it and eventually regain the middleweight belt. He acknowledged that while he would love the opportunity to face Chimaev again, his immediate focus is on securing a victory in his return fight.
"I'm ready to go again and get back to my belt as soon as possible. It don't really matter who it is. I'd of course love for it to be Khamzat, and to redeem that loss. But for me right now, the next fight is the most-important fight of my life, and I will win that fight – and I will get my belt back," he added.
Background on Du Plessis' Impressive Run and Recent Loss
Prior to his defeat by Chimaev, Du Plessis was on an extremely impressive 11-fight win streak dating back to 2018. His notable victories included:
- Stopping former champion Robert Whittaker in 2023 to earn a title shot.
- Outpointing Sean Strickland in early 2024 to win the middleweight title.
- Submitting ex-champion Israel Adesanya to retain the belt.
- Beating Strickland again via decision in early 2025.
This run had led many fans and pundits to favor him against the unbeaten Chimaev, but he ultimately succumbed to the Russian's relentless wrestling in their August bout.
Current Middleweight Landscape and Future Possibilities
At present, Nassourdine Imavov is expected to be Chimaev's first challenger as champion, making an immediate rematch with Du Plessis seem unlikely in the near term. However, if Chimaev moves up to light-heavyweight as he desires, it could open the door for a vacant middleweight-title fight, potentially involving Du Plessis.
Du Plessis remains the only South African champion in UFC history, and his determination to return to the top of the division underscores his resilience and competitive spirit. As he prepares for his comeback, the MMA world watches closely to see if he can reclaim his former glory.
