Dricus Du Plessis Calls Khamzat Struggle Largest ‘Of My Life,’ Large Step in GOAT Objective

Dricus Du Plessis has taken over two dozen UFC fights and numerous others outdoors of the promotion, however he tells TMZ Sports activities his hardest match ever will come on Saturday night time in opposition to Khamzat Chimaev.

The present middleweight champ made no bones about it throughout a sitdown with Michael Babcock earlier this month … explaining the UFC 319 important occasion tilt won’t solely be “the toughest,” however “the largest battle of my life.”

“That is the very best opponent — up to now,” he stated … including, “Up till now, that is the very best man. He’s the No. 1 contender on this planet. He’s the very best man and not using a title on this planet.”

“I wish to be the best fighter ever,” the 31-year-old stated. “Little doubt. I wish to be the GOAT. That is what I’ve chosen. After I began this sport, that is what I needed to be. And I imagine the one approach simply to get into that dialog is to battle the very best of the very best.”

“And Khamzat Chimaev is the following greatest man. There is no doubt. That’s 100%.”

Du Plessis owns a 23-2 document and has spectacular Ws over superstars like Sean Strickland, Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker.

However he is aware of a win over the 14-0 Chimaev would vault him into uncommon air … and he instructed us he is completely thrilled to get the chance to do it in the identical constructing the place Michael Jordan grew to become an icon.

Du Plessis stated seeing His Airness’ monument and strolling by the United Heart gave him “goosebumps” — and, apparently, some additional motivation.

“Seeing the statue of Michael Jordan going and saying, ‘One of the best there ever was’ and ‘the very best there ever will probably be,’ man. That is what I would like. I would like that.”

If that alone wasn’t sufficient motivation to tune in … Du Plessis additionally assured the battle won’t disappoint.