Following DDP’s title defense against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305, Dricus Du Plessis stands at the pinnacle of the middleweight division, his reputation as a formidable champion solidified. As the MMA world looks ahead to his next bout, several contenders have emerged, each with compelling arguments for why they should be the next to challenge Du Plessis for the title.
Among the top contenders is Sean Strickland, who narrowly lost to Du Plessis in their previous encounter at UFC 297. Strickland has been vocal about his desire for a rematch, citing the close nature of their first fight and his subsequent victory over Paulo Costa at UFC 302. His persistence and recent form make him a strong candidate for another shot at the title.
Another potential challenger is Robert Whittaker, a seasoned veteran of the division who has faced Du Plessis before. Whittaker’s experience and skillset make him a formidable opponent, and his recent performances suggest he is still a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight ranks.
Alex Pereira, who has had a storied history with Adesanya and has recently been active in the division, could also be in the mix. Pereira’s knockout victory over Adesanya at UFC 287 highlights his capabilities and makes him a viable contender for Du Plessis’s title.
UFC Africa
UFC President Dana White had previously indicated that if Du Plessis successfully defended his title, the UFC would consider hosting an event in South Africa, Du Plessis’s home country. This statement has now taken on a new level of significance, as Du Plessis’s win has galvanized support for an African UFC event.
The growing interest in MMA across Africa, particularly in South Africa and Nigeria, has made the continent an attractive market for the UFC’s expansion. UFC executive David Shaw highlighted the significant growth in their fanbase in Africa, emphasizing that the organization is determined to host an event on the continent soon. “There is certainly a determination for it to happen soon. We have seen our fanbase in Africa grow over the years, with South Africa and Nigeria being two of the standout countries,” Shaw noted. This growth is not just a numbers game; it reflects a deepening passion for MMA among African fans, who are eager to see their favorite fighters compete on home soil.
Du Plessis’s victory has been seen as a test of the appetite for UFC events in Africa, and with the support of local leaders such as Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, the prospects for a UFC Africa event look more promising than ever. Hill-Lewis has been vocal about his desire to host a UFC event in Cape Town, citing the potential economic benefits and the opportunity to showcase the city’s capabilities in hosting major international events. This level of local support is crucial, as it underscores the readiness of African cities to host high-profile events like those organized by the UFC.
The potential for a UFC Africa event is not just about bringing a major sporting event to the continent; it also represents a significant cultural and economic opportunity. For Du Plessis, who has been a vocal advocate for hosting a UFC event in Africa, this is a chance to give back to his community and inspire a new generation of African fighters. “Let’s make history by doing the first African UFC event and maybe the most memorable event ever,” he said in an interview, reflecting his enthusiasm for the prospect.In conclusion, Dricus Du Plessis’s victory has opened the door for the UFC to finally establish a presence in Africa. With the UFC’s commitment to hosting an event in 2025, fans can look forward to a historic moment that will not only celebrate the sport but also provide a platform for African fighters to shine on the global stage. As the UFC continues to explore the possibilities, Du Plessis remains at the forefront, symbolizing the potential and passion that African MMA has to offer.
