Published 86 days ago
Despite a mixed performance, the South African wins by unanimous decision and stays in the title race
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Dricus du Plessis secured a unanimous decision victory over Kamaru Usman at UFC Oklahoma City, solidifying his position for a future title fight. Despite clear dominance, his performance left observers skeptical about his ability to face the best.
To remember:
- Dricus du Plessis defeats Kamaru Usman by unanimous decision at UFC Oklahoma City.
- A clear but unspectacular win for the South African, reigniting the debate over his ability to dominate the elite.
- The fight confirms his place in the welterweight title race.
Incredible but true: Dricus du Plessis silenced his critics by defeating Kamaru Usman via unanimous decision at UFC Oklahoma City. A result that, though disputed by some, opens the door to a future welterweight title fight. But behind this victory lies a mixed performance, where technical dominance wasn’t enough to convince the purists.
From the opening minutes, du Plessis imposed his game, using his reach and precision to keep Usman at bay. The South African strung together effective combinations, particularly in boxing, while his opponent—seeking a comeback after his loss to Leon Edwards—struggled to find answers. Yet, despite this apparent dominance, the judges did not award rounds unanimously, perhaps reflecting the doubts of onlookers.
« I knew I had to stay patient and use my strengths, » du Plessis stated after the fight. « Usman is a champion, but today, I proved I belong among the best. » A statement that serves as a warning to his future opponents, even if the quality of his performance left some wanting more.
A victory that divides
While the stats and official scorecards clearly favor du Plessis, reactions in the MMA media are more nuanced. Some highlight his tactical intelligence, while others point to the lack of a KO or submission to seal his dominance. « It’s a win, but not a champion’s performance, » reacted one MMA analyst. A debate that promises to heat up ahead of his next fight.