When it comes to respect, Dricus Du Plessis has plenty for Robert Whittaker.
The current UFC middleweight champion believes the UFC isn’t doing any favors to Whittaker, a former titleholder in the division. Whittaker is expected to square off with fellow top contender Khamzat Chimaev later this year.
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Du Plessis, fresh off his title defense over Israel Adesanya, is lined up with Sean Strickland. But it believes Whittaker should be the next challenger.
“Robert Whittaker, especially if he wins over Khamzat, how do you not give the man (a shot),” du Plessis said in an interview with FOX Sports Australia (thanks to MMA Mania for the quotes). “Robert is one of the biggest legends of the sport. That’s why he’s my favorite fighter.
“Right now, more people want to see Strickland. I’m not refusing any fights. I’m going to fight the guy they put in front of me and I’m going to win the belt again.”
Dricus Du Plessis: UFC ‘Doing Robert Dirty’
Whittaker has scored back-to-back wins since a 2023 loss to du Plessis. That includes a recent knockout of Ikram Aliskerov.
He last fought for the belt in 2022, falling to Adesanya via decision. Whittaker won the interim belt in 2017 and was later promoted to undisputed champion, holding it until 2019.
“I believe they’re doing Robert a little bit dirty with what he’s done,” du Plessis said. “I want to fight the guy people want to see me fight. The guy who is clearly the best next guy.
“Right now, that’s Sean Strickland, apparently?”
