In the early hours of Sunday morning (South African time), the spotlight will be on South Africa’s undefeated UFC sensation, Dricus du Plessis, as he steps into the octagon for a momentous clash with the US’s Sean Strickland at UFC 297 in Toronto, Canada. The stakes are high, with du Plessis vying for the middleweight title against Strickland, who aims to defend his title for the first time since his impressive victory over former champion Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in September last year.

His journey to this pivotal moment culminated in a second-round knockout victory over Australia’s Robert Whittaker in July of the previous year.

A distinctive feature of du Plessis’s journey is his unwavering spirit as an underdog. The fighter, known for his famous phrase, “Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie” (They don’t know what we know), embodies the South African ethos of overcoming odds. This phrase, echoing through the celebrations of the Rugby World Cup, symbolizes the resilience of South African athletes who defy expectations.

Since his UFC debut in October 2020, du Plessis has displayed an impressive winning streak, earning him a well-deserved shot at the middleweight title.

Du Plessis, who passionately supported the Springboks during their Rugby World Cup campaign, now receives reciprocal support from the rugby community. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi conveyed his well wishes, expressing the nation’s backing for du Plessis in his title fight. The solidarity extends beyond words, with support pouring in from players like Willie le Roux and Ox Nche, who emphasize the nation’s unity behind the MMA star.

As du Plessis steps into the octagon, the echoes of support from the Rugby World Cup champions resonate. The nation, inspired by the fighter’s indomitable spirit, stands united, eagerly anticipating the broadcast of the historic event on SuperSport, featuring commentary in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa. South Africa rallies behind Dricus du Plessis, echoing the sentiment: “We back you all the way, the way that you backed us.”

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Source: DM and Google