MMA news: Dricus du Plessis dismisses injury rumours ahead of potential Khamzat Chimaev bout
Sports News Blitz MMA expert Niall Togher breaks down the latest surrounding Dricus Du Plessis, who has firmly denied injury rumours ahead of a potential clash with Khamzat Chimaev.
As speculation swirls about a possible showdown at International Fight Week, Du Plessis has made it clear he's still in control of the middleweight title picture.
Was Du Plessis vs Chimaev targeted for International Fight Week?
It is no secret who the number one contender is for Dricus Du Plessis’ middleweight title, with Khamzat Chimaev earning a title shot after submitting Robert Whittaker in the first round in his last fight.
The fight between the pair would be one of the most anticipated MMA fights of the year and presents a fascinating clash of styles.
As all fight fans know, International Fight Week is one of the biggest pay-per-view events of the year, set to take place in June, which would be UFC 317.
The middleweight title fight between Du Plessis and Chimaev was rumoured to be headlining the event.
However, more rumours soon began to circulate online regarding Du Plessis, alleging he had broken his shin and would be unable to compete at International Fight Week.
Du Plessis dispels injury and pull-out rumours
Du Plessis has now come out and addressed the recent rumours regarding his supposed ‘injury’ in a statement posted on his Instagram.
“Okay, so everyone had their opinions and rumours and stories about a shin break and injuries, etc.
“I found it all very entertaining, unfortunately, none of it is true, myself and the UFC already discussed a fight date and opponent,
“The June fight was never signed. I did not pull out of any fight. I am the champion. I know when I fight you, as a contender, just show up when we tell you to.
“Fight announcement coming soon, stay tuned.”
Is Chimaev still next for Du Plessis?
Whilst Du Plessis did not confirm his next opponent in his statement, it is still expected to be Chimaev.
Chimaev initially added fuel to the fire that Du Plessis had pulled out of their fight after posting an AI image on his X account showing him with the UFC title and Du Plessis bowing before him.
Just a few days after that, Chimaev simply posted ‘This guy; biggest bullsh*t’, leading to the rumours about Du Plessis spreading on social media.
This back-and-forth between the two will only add to intrigue and anticipation for MMA fans wanting to see the two fight.
With Du Plessis teasing that he has a fight announcement coming soon, hopefully, the MMA community do not have to wait too much longer before we get to see the two best middleweights in the world lock horns.
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