Overview
- Dricus du Plessis says Khamzat Chimaev kept him out of danger and neutralized his offense in a five-round title loss at UFC 319.
- Morne Visser, Du Plessis’ head coach, criticizes referee Marc Goddard for not issuing more stand-ups and calls Chimaev’s approach a ‘blanket’ strategy.
- Fight stats cited in coverage note 12 takedowns, more than 21 minutes of control, and limited ground striking output from Chimaev.
- Team Du Plessis is targeting an April comeback, with a three-round bout versus Nassourdine Imavov or Brendan Allen under consideration.
- With Chimaev expected to face Imavov next, no immediate rematch is booked as Du Plessis focuses on takedown defense and ground escapes to rebuild.