Dricus du Plessis has spoken out following reports suggesting he may be injured.
The UFC middleweight titleholder was anticipated to defend his championship against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 317 on June 28th.
However, experienced MMA reporter Kevin Iole recently stated that Dricus du Plessis is injured and may not be able to compete against ‘Borz’ during the annual International Fight Week.
On Sunday, Chimaev posted a blunt, four-word insult on social media in response to the rumors, which prompted a reaction from the South African champion.
Dricus du Plessis Responds to Khamzat Chimaev`s Words
On Monday, Du Plessis responded to Chimaev’s widely seen social media post by sharing screenshots of their recent fight records.
The 31-year-old appeared to be highlighting that his opponent has a history of withdrawing from scheduled bouts.
Chimaev’s fight history shows instances where fights with Nate Diaz, Paulo Costa, and Robert Whittaker were canceled in the last two years, whereas Du Plessis has consistently participated in every UFC fight he has committed to.
“Let’s examine the last approximately 2.5 years and determine who is being dishonest,” the middleweight champion wrote as a caption to his post.
‘DDP’ even took the time to reply to a fan who mocked his rumored withdrawal from UFC 317.
One user commented: “Nice try with the comeback, but you spoke too soon when you made fun of his fight cancellations earlier. Has karma caught up with you?”
Du Plessis responded: “The question is, was the fight ever officially agreed upon?”
What`s Next for Khamzat Chimaev?
Chimaev has not competed since defeating Whittaker by submission at UFC 308 in October.
UFC middleweight contender Caio Borralho seems to be the only fighter willing to replace Du Plessis.
Chimaev and Borralho have been engaging in exchanges on social media over the past day.
It is currently uncertain whether the UFC will consider matching the undefeated fighter against a different opponent if Du Plessis is indeed injured.
Current indications suggest the injury rumor is likely accurate, but there has been no official confirmation yet.
Therefore, keep an eye out for updates from UFC president Dana White.
