Dricus du Plessis, also known as “Stillknocks,” is a South African mixed martial artist who has taken the UFC by storm. Born in Welkom, Orange Free State, South Africa, on Jan. 14, 1994, du Plessis has cemented his position as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC’s middleweight division.
Early Years and Sporting Background
Du Plessis’s passion for combat sports began at a tender age. Starting with judo at 5 years old and progressing to wrestling by 12, he quickly demonstrated an affinity for martial arts. However, it was his transition to kickboxing at 14 that would eventually shape his career.
By 2012, du Plessis had achieved a significant milestone by becoming South Africa’s first medalist at the WAKO World Championships, where he won a gold medal in K-1 style kickboxing. Despite his impressive record in kickboxing, du Plessis realized there was more to be gained in mixed martial arts (MMA) and decided to transition to the cage.
His early years in South Africa also saw him develop as a versatile athlete. While excelling in combat sports, du Plessis balanced his training with rugby, a national pastime in South Africa. His involvement in rugby not only showcased his athleticism but also reinforced his love for representing his country. He eventually attended the University of Pretoria, where he studied agricultural economics before dropping out in his final year to fully commit to MMA.
Rising Through the Ranks
Du Plessis made his professional MMA debut in 2013, and it didn’t take long for him to make a name for himself in the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC), a prominent MMA promotion in South Africa. His career in the EFC was marked by his ability to finish fights decisively, with a mix of knockouts and submissions. His dominance earned him titles in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions, making him a two-division champion. His stint with the EFC showcased his talent, and soon international promotions began to take notice.
In 2018, du Plessis made a leap to the Polish promotion Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki (KSW), where he continued his impressive run by winning the KSW Welterweight Championship. His ability to adapt to different opponents and fight styles only furthered his reputation as a well-rounded and dangerous competitor. Despite a loss in a rematch, his time in KSW added another layer of experience and toughness to his growing career.
Making Waves in the UFC
Dricus du Plessis’s UFC debut in 2020 was nothing short of spectacular. Fighting Markus Perez, he secured a knockout victory in the first round, setting the tone for his UFC journey. His striking power and submission skills made him a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division, quickly earning him the nickname “Stillknocks,” a nod to his knockout capabilities.
As du Plessis climbed the ranks, UFC fans, bettors, and analysts began taking note of his performances, leading to his increasing popularity on platforms like FanDuel UFC. His decisive wins over fighters like Trevin Giles and Darren Till, along with his explosive knockout power, made him a frequent favorite for bets and predictions, highlighting his potential to shake up the division.
He continued his ascent by defeating top-tier opponents like Robert Whittaker, a former middleweight champion. This victory earned him Performance of the Night honors and solidified his status as one of the division’s most dangerous competitors.
Achieving UFC Glory
In 2024, Dricus du Plessis achieved what no other South African had done before: he became the UFC Middleweight Champion. His fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 297 was a gritty battle that showcased his endurance and skill. Winning by split decision, du Plessis became the first South African UFC champion, cementing his legacy in the sport.
He followed up his title win by defending his championship against former champion Israel Adesanya, defeating him via submission and further proving his dominance in the division.
Conclusion
Dricus du Plessis’s journey from a young martial artist in South Africa to the top of the UFC’s middleweight division is a story of grit, determination, and national pride. His success has not only brought attention to South African MMA but has also inspired a new generation of fighters. As du Plessis continues to defend his title and represent his homeland on the global stage, his legacy as a UFC sensation will only grow.
