Why Dricus du Plessis’ first title defence will be against Khamzat Chimaev

After claiming the UFC Middleweight title in Toronto, Dricus du Plessis called out Isreal Adesanya but it appears more likely that his first opponent will be chosen by the promotion. Here’s Dricus du Plessis’ first title defence will be against Khamzat Chimaev

While there is no doubting that Du Plessis vs Adesanya would be blockbuster, cicrumstances point to another contender.

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WHO WILL BE DRICUS DU PLESSIS’ FIRST TITLE DEFENCE CHALLENGER

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Sean Strickland was only just defeated by Du Plessis but he doesn’t appear set to get a rematch, despite claiming that he should have won the battle at UFC 297.

The rankings right now, put Strickland and Adesanya at the head of the queue but insiders suggest somone further down the ladder will be getting that shot.

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Adesanya had declared late last year that he would take an extended break from the sport.

“I’m going to take time to look after myself, and I’m not going to fight for a long time,” Adesanya said on ‘The Rock’ podcast.  

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“I’m definitely not going to retire because I know me. I’m not leaving like that. I know me. But if I did, I’m fine. I don’t need to prove anything else.

“But I know what I can do and what I can change in my lifestyle to make my body adapt to where I need to be. I’m going to heal myself up. You won’t see me fight for a long time.”

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THE KHAMZAT CHIMAEV PROMISE

While the rankings favour, Adesanya and Strickland it seems that Chimaev has been promised a title shot.

Chimaev has raged at the prospect of not getting what he has been promised.

In a recent interview with ESPN, Chimnnaev said: “All these guys have fought each other, and only me is undefeated, undisputed, 13-0. They promised me, that after the Usman fight, I will for sure fight for the title. I won that fight, so I don’t know what’s going on. I heard Dana White say, ‘I don’t think Khamzat is next for the title.’ That’s bullsh*t, man. If you promise me something, you have to answer it.

“I’m the guy who always answers for my words so I don’t care if it’s some president or something, like a king. If you give me your word, you have to answer for that.”

If Dana White is a man of his word Du Plessis will next face Chimaev.