Kamaru Usman Recalls Feeling Dricus Du Plessis's Power in Sparring

Kamaru Usman has opened up about a sparring experience with Dricus Du Plessis, revealing that the South African's punching power made a strong and lasting impression on him well before Du Plessis became a UFC title contender.

Usman, 39, holds a 21-4 record and competes at welterweight, where he is currently ranked eighth in the division. Known throughout his career for sharp striking efficiency — he lands 4.36 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy — and consistent grappling output of 2.82 takedowns per 15 minutes, Usman is one of the most accomplished fighters of his generation. His recollection of the sparring session carries weight given how technically refined he himself has been throughout his career.

Du Plessis, 32, enters the conversation as the number-two ranked middleweight and the seventh-ranked pound-for-pound fighter on the current rankings. The South African, fighting out of Team CIT, carries a 23-3 record and has built his reputation around heavy hands and relentless pressure. He lands 5.18 significant strikes per minute and also mixes in a solid grappling game, averaging 2.22 takedowns per 15 minutes. His reach, matching Usman's at 76 inches, adds to the threat he poses on the feet.

Usman acknowledged in the interview that Du Plessis may not be the most polished technical striker, but was clear that the power he felt in those exchanges was something he could not ignore.

Why it matters

• Du Plessis is ranked second at middleweight and seventh pound-for-pound, making any insight into his power particularly relevant at the divisional level.
• Usman's assessment carries credibility given his own elite striking accuracy and years of experience against high-level competition.
• The comments add to the growing picture of Du Plessis as a fighter whose raw power sets him apart even from peers who outshine him technically.