UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has publicly stated that he likes Justin Gaethje's fighting style. The post suggests this preference was somewhat predictable given du Plessis's own aggressive approach to fighting. While the comment appears brief, it reflects mutual respect between elite fighters known for their exciting, action-oriented styles. No specific context for the statement was provided beyond du Plessis's admiration for the former lightweight champion.
UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has gone on record expressing admiration for lightweight champion Justin Gaethje's fighting style, a sentiment that comes as little surprise given the similarly aggressive approaches both men bring to the octagon.
Du Plessis, known by the nickname "Stillknocks," carries a 23-3-0 record and currently holds the middleweight title. Ranked second in the division and seventh pound-for-pound, the 32-year-old South African fights out of a switch stance and is built for pressure, landing 5.18 significant strikes per minute with 48 percent accuracy. He also adds a wrestling dimension, averaging 2.22 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him one of the more complete fighters in the sport. At six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach, he has the physical tools to impose his will in any range.
Gaethje, meanwhile, has carved out a reputation as one of the most entertaining fighters in UFC history. The 37-year-old American, nicknamed "The Highlight," holds a 28-5-0 record and is the current lightweight champion. Fighting out of an orthodox stance at five-foot-eleven with a 70-inch reach, Gaethje is a volume striker of the highest order, landing 6.48 significant strikes per minute at an accuracy rate of 58 percent. His output and durability have made him a fan favorite throughout his career.
Why it matters
- Both champions are known for forward-pressure, high-output striking styles, making du Plessis's admiration a natural fit
- The comment highlights cross-divisional respect between two of the UFC's most active champions
- Gaethje's striking volume and accuracy represent a benchmark that resonates with du Plessis's own action-oriented philosophy
