Dricus du Plessis Dismisses Islam Makhachev’s Middleweight Challenge: “It’s an Easy Payday”

Dricus du Plessis is open to the idea of taking on lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, but only if the timing and circumstances align. Makhachev, fresh off his fourth title defense at UFC 311 with a first-round submission victory over Renato Moicano, has sparked discussions about moving up in weight. While Makhachev has entertained the idea of competing for champ-champ status, his friendship with welterweight champion Belal Muhammad complicates any plans to target that division. Instead, Makhachev floated the notion of jumping straight to middleweight and challenging du Plessis. Speaking with Main Event, du Plessis dismissed the idea as far-fetched, though he acknowledged Makhachev’s skillset. “He’s an incredible fighter; there’s no doubt about that. Watching him dominate Moicano reaffirmed why he’s considered the pound-for-pound best,” du Plessis said. “But stepping into my division is a completely different story. He doesn’t train with someone like me. I’d overpower him in every aspect.” While Makhachev believes he has the tools to take on a middleweight, du Plessis remains skeptical, pointing out the physical disparities between the divisions. “He’s a big lightweight, sure, but I’m a big middleweight,” he added. “The difference is significant, and it’s not just about skills — it’s physics. That being said, if there’s ever a time when no better fights are available, I’d happily take that matchup. Easy payday.” For now, du Plessis is focused on his upcoming middleweight title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 312. A potential clash with Khamzat Chimaev looms afterward, further solidifying his standing in the division. However, he didn’t completely rule out a showdown with Makhachev down the line if the UFC makes it happen. “If there’s no fight for me and no fight for him, I’d teach him the difference between lightweight and middleweight,” he said with confidence. While Makhachev’s ambition is commendable, du Plessis emphasized that competing against middleweights is a different challenge altogether. Fans will undoubtedly keep an eye on this potential super fight as both champions continue to build their legacies.