Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis has rapidly ascended the ranks of mixed martial arts, boasting an impressive professional record of 22 wins and 2 losses. His journey from regional circuits to becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion is a testament to his skill, determination, and unorthodox fighting style.
Early Career and Rise in EFC
Du Plessis began his professional MMA career in 2013, competing in South Africa’s Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC). He quickly made a name for himself, capturing both the EFC Welterweight and Middleweight titles. His tenure in EFC showcased his versatility, securing victories through a mix of knockouts and submissions.
International Success in KSW
Transitioning to the European scene, Du Plessis competed in Poland’s Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki (KSW). In a notable upset, he defeated Roberto Soldi to claim the KSW Welterweight Championship. Although he later lost the title in a rematch, his performances in KSW solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor on the international stage.
Undefeated Streak in the UFC
Since joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2020, Du Plessis has remained undefeated, amassing an 8-0 record within the promotion. His UFC victories include wins over notable fighters such as Markus Perez, Trevin Giles, Brad Tavares, Darren Till, Derek Brunson, Robert Whittaker, and Sean Strickland. His unorthodox fighting style, characterized by high-volume striking and effective grappling, has often confounded opponents and analysts alike.
Championship Glory
In January 2024, Du Plessis faced Sean Strickland at UFC 297, winning by split decision to become the UFC Middleweight Champion. He successfully defended his title in August 2024 at UFC 305, submitting former champion Israel Adesanya in the fourth round. These victories not only extended his professional record but also established him as a dominant force in the middleweight division.
What is Dricus du Plessis’ Record?
- Age: 30 years
- Country: South Africa
- Record: 21-2-0
- Height: 1.85 m (6′ 1”)
- Weight: 84 kg (186 lbs)
- Reach: 76”
- Leg Reach: 43”
- Wins by KO/TKO: 9
- Wins by Submission: 10
- Wins by Decision: 2
- Average Fight Time: 9:11
- Takedown Rate per 15 Minutes: 1.09
- Strikes Landed per Minute: 6.95
- Significant Strikes Accuracy: 55%
- Strikes Absorbed per Minute: 3.79
- Defense: 53%
Upcoming Title Defense
As of February 2025, Du Plessis is scheduled to defend his middleweight title in a rematch against Sean Strickland at UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia. This highly anticipated bout will be a significant test as he aims to maintain his undefeated streak in the UFC and further cement his legacy as one of the sport’s elite fighters.
Dricus Du Plessis’s career trajectory exemplifies a blend of resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence. With each fight, he continues to captivate fans and defy expectations, solidifying his place among the top athletes in mixed martial arts today.