Khamzat Chimaev vs Dricus du Plessis 'confirmed' as per UFC President Dana White
White revealed after UFC Kansas that the middleweight division will see its next champion vs challenger showdown sooner rather than later.
"We all know that fight's happening," White said. "The du Plessis vs. Khamzat fight, it's happening. It's just not happening in International Fight Week… But that fight's done."
When pushed further on the topic regarding when an official announcement can be expected by UFC fans, White jokingly proclaimed 'this year.'
Chimaev, who has compiled a 14-0 record in dominant fashion since joining the UFC, recently defeated former champions Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker.
Known for his powerful wrestling and relentless pace, the Chechen-Swedish fighter is viewed as a serious threat to du Plessis' reign.
Du Plessis, however, enters the bout on an equally impressive streak, having defeated Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland (twice), Robert Whittaker, and Derek Brunson to claim and defend the middleweight crown.
His combination of striking and resilience has made him one of the most respected fighters in the division.
Betting lines have already opened with Chimaev listed as the early favourite, owing to his wrestling pedigree and finishing prowess.
Du Plessis also posted recently on Instagram teasing fight announcement, with the caption 'It's time!'.
Meanwhile, the much-hyped potential heavyweight bout between Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall remains in negotiation limbo.
Despite Aspinall's dominant victories over Alexander Volkov, Sergei Pavlovich, and Curtis Blaydes, a deal to face Jones has yet to be finalized — a point of frustration among UFC fans.
As excitement builds for du Plessis vs Chimaev, UFC fans can expect an official date announcement soon, with White promising more blockbuster cards for the second half of 2025.
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