“Defeat Is Part of Life”: Dricus Du Plessis Reflects on UFC Loss and Vows to Come Back Stronger

• Dricus Du Plessis has spoken publicly for the first time since his defeat in Chicago, sharing a statement that mixed reflection and determination
• In his message, he acknowledged the setback while stressing his drive to learn and improve, signalling that his journey is far from over
• His team emphasised that the focus now shifts to correcting weaknesses before any talk of another fight or potential rematch

UFC middleweight fighter Dricus Du Plessis has broken his silence following his devastating defeat to Khamzat Chimaev on Saturday, 16 August, in Chicago.

Du Plessis lost his title after a gruelling five-round battle, with the judges awarding Chimaev the victory via an unanimous decision.

The South African’s reign as champion came to an end, but he has vowed that the setback will not define him.

On Monday, 25 August, Du Plessis released his first official statement on social media, reflecting on the loss and promising to bounce back stronger.

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“It’s been just over a week, and I’ve spent time with my family and friends, the people who stand by me, win or lose. I accept this loss because, as much as I hate it, defeat is part of life and part of this sport. Without the bitter, the sweet wouldn’t taste as sweet," he wrote.

He admitted he is not a “good loser,” stressing that those who accept defeat too easily often become regular losers. However, he described himself as a committed learner, both in sport and in life.

According to Du Plessis, the setback has lit a fire within him. He said the drive it has created will fuel a comeback greater than his previous success, with his pursuit of glory and greatness being “beyond the imagination of the average mind.”

See the statement below:

Du Plessis also expressed gratitude to his fans

The 30-year-old made no excuses for his performance, praising Chimaev for being the better fighter on the night.

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“Congratulations to my opponent, and thank you for the honour of sharing the octagon,” he said.

Du Plessis also expressed gratitude to his fans, sponsors, and faith community, insisting that the support he has received will drive him forward. He also sent a message to his critics.

“Thank you to all the fans worldwide and my sponsors who continue to play a vital role in my journey. And to those who celebrated my defeat, I’ll repay the favour, like I always have.”

Closing his statement, he reaffirmed his faith.

“I believe in the plan of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He knows best, and I look forward to what lies ahead.”

In the aftermath of the fight, Du Plessis’s coach, Morne Visser, confirmed that the fighter will not take any immediate bouts. Instead, the focus will be on addressing weaknesses Chimaev exploited, particularly his wrestling. Once those improvements are made, the team’s goal is clear: face Chimaev again and reclaim the belt.

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Dricus explains why he lost to Chimaev

Briefly News previously reported that South African UFC Middleweight fighter Dricus du Plessis has reacted to his bruising defeat at the hands of the UAE’s Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 in Chicago.

The 31-year-old was the defending champion going into the fight, marking his second title defence this year after defeating Sean Strickland in February to retain the belt.

Du Plessis was dominated over five rounds and lost by unanimous decision, relinquishing his championship title and ending his unbeaten run.

Source: Briefly News