Dricus du Plessis Announces His UFC Comeback Fight Targeting a Rematch with Khamzat Chimaev in Miami

South African MMA star Dricus du Plessis, also known as “Stillknocks,” is ready to shake up the UFC middleweight division.

After a tough loss last year, he’s not just coming back — he’s hungry for redemption.

The 32-year-old from Welkom hasn’t stepped into the octagon since August 2025, when he lost his UFC middleweight belt to Khamzat Chimaev in a fight many described as one of the most lopsided title bouts in UFC history.

That defeat marked the first loss of Du Plessis’ UFC career, and he’s now laser-focused on reclaiming his spot at the top.

A Return Set for April

Du Plessis has his sights on a comeback as early as April 2026.

While no official contract is yet in place, he’s eager to be featured on the April card in Miami.

“There’s no opponent yet, there’s no contract yet.

We don’t have any of that, [but] whoever, let’s go,” he told the Independent.

His timeline shows determination, signaling that he’s not waiting for perfect conditions — he wants to get back into the cage as soon as possible to prove himself to fans, South Africa, and the wider MMA community.

Targeting Khamzat Chimaev for Redemption

The name at the top of Du Plessis’ list is none other than the man who dethroned him, Khamzat Chimaev.

While he’s open to facing other opponents, a rematch with Chimaev is clearly his primary goal.

“I’m ready to go again and get back to my belt as soon as possible.

It don’t really matter who it is.

I’d of course love for it to be Khamzat, and [to] redeem that loss,” Du Plessis said.

The fighter emphasizes that this next fight is not just another match — it’s “the most-important fight” of his life.

For Du Plessis, it’s about more than personal pride; it’s about reclaiming the title he believes he should never have lost.

Possible Opponents and Preparations

While Du Plessis’ ultimate goal is Chimaev, reports have suggested he might face American fighter Brendan Allen in April.

Regardless of who steps into the cage, Du Plessis is ready.

His focus is singular: proving he’s still one of the division’s elite fighters and regaining the UFC middleweight title.

The South African has a track record of discipline, explosive striking, and tactical grappling — a combination that makes him a threat to any opponent.

Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if he can rebound from the setback and reclaim championship glory.

What’s next?

In the coming weeks, Du Plessis’ management is expected to finalize his opponent and the contract details.

Once confirmed, training camps will intensify, with an eye on peak performance for the April card.

If he faces Brendan Allen, it could be a stepping stone to another title shot against Chimaev later in the year.

Either way, Du Plessis is clear on his mission: to climb back to the top of the middleweight division and prove that his loss was just a temporary setback.

Summary

Dricus du Plessis, the former UFC middleweight champion from South Africa, is preparing for his comeback in April 2026.

After a decisive loss to Khamzat Chimaev in August 2025, Du Plessis is determined to reclaim his title.

While a rematch with Chimaev is his ultimate goal, he may face Brendan Allen in his return bout.

The fighter calls this next fight the most important of his life, signaling his commitment to redemption and regaining the UFC middleweight championship.