UFC Middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis may be on the sidelines for the foreseeable future.
That’s according to top-ranked contender, Caio Borralho, who is angling for an interim title shot versus Khamzat Chimaev in Du Plessis’ absence. “DDP” vs. Khamzat was largely expected to be one of the most high-profile bookings of 2025’s “International Fight Week” event UFC 317, but a Du Plessis’ injury would seem to throw a wrench into those plans.
Immediately, Du Plessis and Khamzat traded online barbs over the withdrawal. Borralho, meanwhile, has been consistent in calling for an opportunity to face “Borz” himself, and the Chechen standout is open to the match up. Borralho wants to fight for interim gold, and per the surging Brazilian, Du Plessis is going to be benched long enough to justify another 185-pound strap.
“I also heard from another source a little closer to Dricus’ camp that it was an injury that seems to be a little serious, like a broken shin. I don’t know. Something like that,” Borralho told Ag. Fight (via Essentially Sports).
He continued, “He’ll be out for about six months, and that would make it easier for the UFC to put [the interim title on the line]. So, I’m waiting for that. This fight will only happen if it’s for the interim belt.”
At the time of this article, Du Plessis has still refused to publicly confirm or deny his alleged injury, let alone offer specifics on the recovery process. If Du Plessis is ready to go or only facing a short time off the mats, an interim title would be rather disrespectful. The South African is an active champion, having defended his title opposite Sean Strickland just two months ago at UFC 312.
If we are looking at a more long term issue, Chimaev vs. Borralho would be a damn good replacement fight. “Borz” has been widely hyped for years now and has been an absolute terror in his short Middleweight career, whereas Borralho is undefeated (7-0) inside the Octagon and riding the massive momentum wave of The Fighting Nerds.
Expect some clarifications from the champion and promotion in the coming days.
This story originally appeared on MMA Mania
