The Road to History: Du Plessis’s Quest to Become UFC’s First Triple-Division Champion

Dricus du Plessis stands on the brink of a historic milestone. As he prepares to headline UFC 319 against the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, he is not only defending his middleweight belt but also setting his sights on an ambition that could redefine MMA history: becoming the UFC’s first triple-division champion.

Rising Star and Reigning Champion at UFC 319

Hailing from South Africa, du Plessis has compiled an impressive undefeated streak in the UFC, capturing and defending the middleweight title with wins over Sean Strickland and Israel Adesanya. Should he prevail against Chimaev in Chicago at UFC 319, it will mark his third successful defense—solidifying his dominance in the 185-pound division.

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Eyes on Higher Ground

With the middleweight landscape increasingly competitive and exciting, du Plessis is intent on “cleaning out” the division before considering a move higher. At 31 and walking around at around 210 pounds, he believes he has ample time to pursue new challenges—specifically at light heavyweight (205 lbs) and even heavyweight—if he continues to dominate.

A Historic Opportunity

UFC legends like Brendan Schaub have noted that du Plessis’s size and skill set make him a legitimate candidate to chase titles in multiple divisions. With a victory over Chimaev, Schaub suggests, the champion could embark on a campaign to capture crowns at middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight—an unprecedented feat in UFC history.

The Challenge Ahead

Chimaev poses no small threat—undefeated and hungry—but du Plessis remains unflinching. His coach has confidently branded Chimaev “one-dimensional” and insists du Plessis can beat him at his own game. If he succeeds, du Plessis won’t just maintain his reign at middleweight; he will stand as the first UFC fighter poised to dominate three divisions under standard weight classes.

As UFC 319 approaches, all eyes will be on whether Dricus du Plessis can turn ambition into legacy—and cement his place in MMA history.

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