Dricus du Plessis believes he can become the greatest middleweight in UFC history after a win over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. Du Plessis, currently on three title defenses of his 185lb belt, thinks a victory will put him close to Anderson Silva’s record for most middleweight title defenses.
Unlike Silva, who made 10 defenses during his reign as champion, du Plessis accepts he may not equal that record but believes his quality of opposition and era-defining wins will ultimately make him the middleweight GOAT. Du Plessis questions Anderson Silva’s resume, saying Silva’s achievements were achieved in an era when fighters had more time to prepare.
Du Plessis also addresses size concerns surrounding his upcoming fight against Khamzat Chimaev, with some fans pointing out a perceived height advantage for the Russian phenom. However, du Plessis claims he is not intimidated by Chimaev’s size and believes it will have no bearing on their outcome. The Dutch fighter remains focused on securing the win and getting close to Silva’s title record.
After this victory, du Plessis is confident he’ll be in a strong position to become the middleweight GOAT, despite acknowledging he still has a long way to go.
Source: https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/08/14/dricus-du-plessis-questions-anderson-silvas-resume-as-he-makes-middleweight-goat-claim-ahead-of-ufc-319