Gregory Rodrigues uncertain on the title of the title UFC of du Plessis

Las Vegas – Gregory Rodrigues expects the new wave of talents posing problems for the average weight champion of the UFC Dricus du Plessis.

Du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC) retained its average weight title by beating Sean Strickland (29-7 MMA, 16-7 UFC) during the main UFC 312 event last Saturday Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney.

But with Khamzat Chimaev, Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho imminent, Rodrigues does not see the reign of Du Plessis as a medium -lasting champion.

“It was good. It was good for the DDP, “Rodrigues told journalists on Wednesday media day. “He did his job. Before the fight, I thought he will always be the champion, and he did it. But I don’t know if this belt will hold at the end of this year. He’s going to fight Chimaev, right? It’s a good match, but his will is still there, right? He is the champion, he is young.

“But I don’t know if he has the quality to continue with the belt. The division has changed, so many good names, and they arrive. (Nassourdine) Imavov is there, Cio Borralho. So many good guys to come. Me, a few more days and I will be there. The division is starting to become exciting, and I am delighted to live in this perfect moment. »»

Rodrigues (16-5 MMA, 7-2 UFC) will seek to enter the conversation himself when he faces the former challenger of the title Jared Cannonier (17-8 MMA, 10-8 UFC) in UFC Fight Night 251 of SATURDAY.ESPN +) Headboard at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

“I think it’s the ideal moment for this fight,” said Rodrigues. “I respect Jared Cannonier, I respect everything he did. He has already fought for the belt, but I know who I am, and I know where I want to go. He will therefore be one more step in my trip to be the champion of his division. »»

To find out more about the map, visit the MMA Junkie event center for UFC Fight Night 251.