Dricus Du Plessis has finally broken his silence following his UFC 319 loss to Khamzat Chimaev.
The former middleweight champion released a statement on social media Monday, nine days after dropping a unanimous decision, updating the public on what he has been doing since the loss and how he plans on rebounding.
“It’s been just over a week and I have spent some time with my family and friends, those closest to me who will be with me win or lose,” Du Plessis wrote. “I embrace this loss with open arms, because believe me as much as I hate losing, it’s as much part of life as part of our game – and I believe it’s necessary in my pursuit of greatness.”
The 31-year-old from South Africa lost all five rounds on the scorecards to Chimaev, couldn’t muster much offence other than briefly in the final round, and was controlled for 21:40 of the 25-minute bout.
“Make no mistake I’m not a good loser, because a good loser becomes a frequent one,” Du Plessis continued. “I am however an avid learner of the arts and of life itself. This loss has exploded a desire in me that will have the consequence of an onslaught bigger than the original domination. My return to glory and pursuit of greatness will be unimaginable for the average minded.
“I have absolutely no excuses for my performance, I was beaten by a better fighter on the night, congratulations to my opponent and thank you for the honour of sharing the octagon with you."
Du Plessis absorbed 529 total strikes during the fight, although he didn’t take too much damage since Chimaev only landed 37 significant strikes. He only defended five of Chimaev’s 17 takedown attempts throughout the fight and landed just 45 total strikes of his own, only 13 of which were significant.
It is unclear how long Du Plessis will be out of action and who his next opponent will be, but he believes the loss will result in him coming back a better fighter.
“Thank you for all the love and support from fans all over the world … AND SINCERELY thank you to all those who enjoyed to see me fall, because I will return the favour, like I always have,” Du Plessis added.
Du Plessis began his UFC career 9-0 en route to becoming champion including notable wins over fellow former titleholders Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland (twice) and Robert Whittaker.
