Dricus du Plessis dominates Kamaru Usman, calls for Sean Strickland trilogy

Dricus du Plessis delivered a masterclass in striking and pressure at UFC Fight Night in Oklahoma City on Saturday, defeating Kamaru Usman by unanimous decision. The No. 2-ranked middleweight contender dominated the former champion with scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46, cementing his status as a top contender.

What happened at UFC Fight Night?

The South African fighter showcased his relentless striking and signature pressure, leaving no doubt about his victory. Usman, once a dominant champion, struggled to keep up with Du Plessis' pace and precision. The win marked a significant statement for Du Plessis, who is now eyeing a return to the top of the middleweight division.

Why this win matters for Dricus du Plessis

Du Plessis' performance against Usman was nothing short of impressive. The South African fighter has now set his sights on a trilogy bout with Sean Strickland, the current UFC Middleweight Champion. Du Plessis holds a 2-0 record against Strickland, having previously defeated him in January 2024 to win the title and again in a title defense. After losing the belt to Khamzat Chimaev in August 2025, Du Plessis is eager to reclaim his spot at the top.

What comes next for Dricus du Plessis?

Following his victory, Du Plessis made it clear that he believes he deserves another shot at the middleweight title. "I said a win wouldn't get me a title shot, but damned if a performance like that would give me a title shot," he stated. With Strickland holding the belt, a trilogy fight seems inevitable. The UFC is likely to consider this matchup, given the history and the stakes involved.

Khamzat Chimaev, who defeated Du Plessis in 2025, is also in the mix. If Du Plessis secures another win over Strickland, Chimaev will be waiting for a rematch. The middleweight division is heating up, and Du Plessis is at the center of it all. Fans can expect more drama and high-stakes fights in the coming months.