Dricus dominates Usman in UFC return

By Razeen Gutta

Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis marked his return from a year out with a statement win, outpointing former welterweight king Kamaru Usman over five rounds at UFC Fight Night in Oklahoma City on Sunday morning.

From the opening bell, the South African took center octagon and set the pace.

Du Plessis peppered Usman with leg kicks and kept range with sharp hands, rocking the Nigerian with a right hand late in round one.

The pressure continued in the second as Du Plessis found his kicks again and stuffed takedown attempts, landing knees as Usman shot in.

Usman had his best moment in the third with a brief takedown, but Du Plessis was up quickly and went back to chopping the legs.

Needing a finish, Usman swung hard in the fourth.

Du Plessis slipped the flurries and answered with quick combinations capped by a thudding left high kick that snapped Usman’s head back.

The final round was more of the same — du Plessis landing kicks, Usman pressing late against the fence but unable to break through.

After the fight Du Plessis praised Usman’s heart.

“That man came to give you a proper fight. I told you when I make this comeback, Stillknocks 2.0 will be the best version you have ever seen. That is what you call composure. I didn’t go crazy when I caught him,” du Plessis said post fight.

“We can always get the knockout. You need to train your mind to be composed.”

Du Plessis, who now looks forward to challenging for the middleweight belt once more, also mentioned that he hopes to receive a title fight in the near future.

“I’m back in the winner’s circle, baby. Let’s get my belt back!”

Pictured above: Dricus du Plessis

Source: @ufc