Why Dricus du Plessis' adaptable style counters Khamzat Chimaev's height advantage

A recent video surfaced on social media showing UFC Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and third-ranked contender Khamzat Chimaev meeting for the first time ahead of their title clash at UFC 319 in Chicago.

In the lead-up to fight week, several pundits — and many who have seen both fighters in person — suggested that South African MMA star Du Plessis had a considerable physical advantage over Chimaev.

Many believed that, due to his size and strength, Du Plessis is expected to stuff Chimaev’s takedowns and impose his own — attributes the undefeated Chimaev has never encountered in his 14-fight professional career.

However, the video of their first meeting quickly became a talking point. In the frame, Chimaev appeared noticeably bigger than Du Plessis — prompting many of Chimaev’s fans to argue that he, in fact, holds the physical upper hand.

Yet, the perception created by the video may not reflect reality. Due to the angle at which it was shot, even a heavyweight fighter could appear smaller than a light heavyweight, depending on positioning.

Had Du Plessis stood on the other side of the frame, he might have looked significantly larger. The pundits and experts weren’t necessarily wrong about Du Plessis’ physical advantage; rather, the video may have distorted the truth.

Additionally, some viewers pointed out that Chimaev seemed to tower over Du Plessis in height. Chimaev stands at 1.89m, while Du Plessis is listed at 1.82m . Some argue that this height difference could give Chimaev a tactical edge — one that might tip the fight in his favour.

While height can occasionally help a fighter maintain distance or leverage a longer reach, it’s important to remember that Du Plessis has faced taller opponents before — and beaten them.

In fact, his first title defence came against UFC Hall of Famer Israel Adesanya, who stands at 6'4", a full two inches taller than Chimaev. Du Plessis not only defeated Adesanya, but became the first fighter to submit the legendary striker.

So, what does height really have to do with this title bout?