What's Happening?
South African fighter Dricus du Plessis is expected to return to the UFC octagon in early 2026, following his loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. Du Plessis' coach, Morne Visser, has outlined a plan to address the fighter's grappling weaknesses, particularly his difficulty in stopping takedowns. Visser believes that with 12 to 16 weeks of focused training, du Plessis can overcome these challenges and prepare for a fight camp. Du Plessis, who holds a record of 23 wins and three losses, previously defeated Sean Strickland at UFC 312 in February 2025. His recent loss to Chimaev was by unanimous decision.
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Why It's Important?
Du Plessis' planned return to the octagon is significant for his career and the UFC middleweight division. Addressing his grappling weaknesses could enhance his performance and competitiveness against top-tier opponents. His comeback could impact rankings and future matchups within the division, potentially leading to title contention. For the UFC, having skilled fighters like du Plessis actively competing contributes to the organization's reputation and fan engagement. Successful comebacks can inspire other athletes and attract new fans to the sport, bolstering the UFC's market presence.
What's Next?
Du Plessis will undergo a training regimen focused on improving his grappling skills, with plans to enter a fight camp once these issues are resolved. His return to the octagon is anticipated in early 2026, which could lead to new matchups and opportunities within the UFC middleweight division. Stakeholders such as fans, promoters, and fellow fighters will be watching his progress closely, as his performance could influence future fight cards and title contention.
