Bold claim: Dricus du Plessis is plotting a dramatic comeback to UFC action in April, with a vivid target of reclaiming his belt and a potential showdown against Khamzat Chimaev. But here’s where it gets controversial: will the matchup actually materialize in time, and what does it mean for the UFC 327 card in Miami?
Dricus du Plessis is getting ready for a return tour after relinquishing the UFC middleweight crown on a unanimous decision that many fans felt could have gone differently. He is hoping to secure a spot on UFC 327, slated for April 11 at the Kaseya Center in Miami. If everything aligns, it would mark his first appearance since that title loss last summer in Chicago.
His preferred opponent remains a five-round rematch with Khamzat Chimaev. In a candid update to Fight Forecast, du Plessis said he has spent time addressing areas he believes need improvement and that he will be ready for April. He emphasized his readiness to compete on the Miami card and chase his belt back, with Chimaev serving as his ideal opponent to redeem that prior defeat. He also warned that if Chimaev engages differently, it could spell trouble for him, underscoring his commitment to imposing his own fight plan.
Du Plessis acknowledged the reality that a rematch with Chimaev is not guaranteed and noted that the next fight is the most important one at this moment. He stressed that his focus remains on correcting weaknesses, particularly in wrestling defense, and on returning to fight shape in time for UFC 327’s window.
As for UFC 327’s lineup, the event has not yet announced a headliner, though several bouts have been confirmed. Notable bouts include a light heavyweight clash between Dominick Reyes and Johnny Walker and a heavyweight matchup featuring Paulo Costa against Azamat Murzakanov. With the clock ticking toward April, a decision on whether du Plessis will headline or feature prominently on the card should come soon.
What’s your take: should the UFC push for a high-profile rematch between du Plessis and Chimaev at UFC 327, or would fans benefit from a different setup on the Miami card? Do you think du Plessis has what it takes to regain the belt and rewrite the narrative from their previous clash? Share your thoughts in the comments.
