Dricus du Plessis had no answer to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319.
Duplesis was then asked if something in the fight had surprised him, and he praised Chimeh with his dominant grappling.
“The guy has incredible control over the top,” Duplesis said. “He was like a blanket. It wasn’t a matter of strength, it wasn’t that physical, it was as if he knew your next move. He got it without using too much power.
Chimaev became famous for finishing the fight with his aggressive grappling, but on Saturday it was all about controlling Duplesis and thwarting South Africa’s outstanding attack. Chimaev worked on the game plan to the tee and was rarely threatened outside of a thrilling comeback attempt at the end of the fight. Du Plessis failed to pull off the miraculous finish and lost for the first time in his 10-race UFC career.
There is a long lineup of candidates waiting to challenge Chimaev, including UFC 319 Main Event Backup Caio Borralho, Nassourdine Imavov, Reinier de Ridder, Anthony Hernandez and Chimaev rival Paulo Costa. No matter what, he’s sure he’ll get there.
“But a big up to Khamzat, he deserves this and deserves 100%,” Du Plessis said. “He beat me fair and square tonight. He was a better guy tonight. I’m back. I’m coming back to get my belt back. For now, it’s him and he deserves it.”