Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode Title: Daniel Cormier TV - Dricus Du Plessis on TEACHING Khamzat Chimaev How to Lose, Disrespected as an Underdog
Release Date: August 15, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description:
In this compelling episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Devin engages in an in-depth conversation with UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis. The discussion delves into Du Plessis's journey from being perceived as an underdog to establishing himself as a dominant force in the UFC. They explore his strategies, motivations, and the anticipation surrounding his upcoming fight against Khamzat Chimaev.

1. From Underdog to Champion

Timestamp [04:14]:
Du Plessis reflects on his rise in the UFC, emphasizing his hunger for greatness beyond the initial 30% increase in recognition that comes with becoming a champion.

Dricus Du Plessis: "Once I became champion, I just loved it. I just loved it. And I've been champion for many years outside of the UFC, and once I tasted that gold, I just got hungrier to be great."

Du Plessis discusses how securing the championship ignited a deeper passion and commitment to excellence, driving him to elevate his performances both in and out of the Octagon.

2. Analysis of the Sean Strickland Fights

Timestamp [05:09]:
Devin asks Du Plessis about his second fight with Sean Strickland, noting Strickland's apparent lack of adaptability.

Devin: "Were you surprised at how that fight played out?... he seemed like a shell of himself."
Du Plessis: "Strickland's a great fighter, but if you figure him out, you figure him out... I was in there with the man for 25 minutes."

Du Plessis elaborates on how he meticulously prepared and adjusted his strategy for the rematch, ensuring he could counter Strickland’s consistent game plan. He highlights the importance of understanding an opponent’s tendencies to secure victory.

3. Motivations Beyond Money

Timestamp [19:01]:
The conversation shifts to motivations, where Du Plessis emphasizes that his drive stems from passion, legacy, and representing his country, rather than monetary gain.

Du Plessis: "Passion, legacy and achievement. That's bigger than me... It's about bringing that victory home. Representing my country, my people, my team, my family."

He underscores that his actions and dedication in the UFC are fueled by a desire to leave a lasting legacy and honor his heritage, rather than financial incentives.

4. Preparing to Face Khamzat Chimaev

Timestamp [20:44]:
Du Plessis discusses the upcoming fight against Khamzat Chimaev, acknowledging Chimaev's strengths while expressing confidence in his own abilities.

Du Plessis: "He has the striking to put you down with one strike. He has enough power for that... but I 100% believe that I'm the best in the world at MMA."

He identifies Chimaev’s aggressiveness and grappling as key threats but remains steadfast in his preparation to counteract these elements. Du Plessis emphasizes his strategic approach to dismantle Chimaev’s game plan.

5. The Depth of the Middleweight Division

Timestamp [27:29]:
Du Plessis praises the current state of the UFC Middleweight division, highlighting its depth and the high caliber of fighters.

Du Plessis: "It's the deepest middleweight has ever been. ... like I said, it's a very exciting time to be."

He acknowledges the competitive landscape, noting that the division features multiple top-tier fighters, which not only elevates the level of competition but also enhances his own status as a champion.

6. Training, Strength, and Tactical Evolution

Timestamp [12:16]:
The dialogue shifts to physical training, where Du Plessis distinguishes between innate strength and trainable power.

Du Plessis: "I honestly believe that some guys have power and some guys have strength. And the one you cannot train. You cannot train strength. You have it or you don't."

He elaborates on his training regimen, focusing on enhancing his power and technical skills rather than solely relying on raw strength. This approach has been pivotal in his transformation into a formidable opponent in the octagon.

7. Personal Interests and Lifestyle

Timestamp [29:08]:
Beyond the octagon, Du Plessis shares insights into his personal life, particularly his passion for cars and interest in safaris.

Du Plessis: "I have a Mustang, a Roush Mustang. I have a '67 Eleanor on its way... And I have a Toyota Land Cruiser. A big truck."

This segment humanizes Du Plessis, showcasing his diverse interests and hobbies outside of fighting, which contribute to his well-rounded personality.

8. Commitment to Overcoming Challenges

Timestamp [21:55]:
Du Plessis emphasizes the importance of resilience and the ability to handle defeat, stating his mission to teach Chimaev how to lose.

Du Plessis: "You have to teach him how to lose... I've felt defeat in the professional era as well. And it sucks."

He conveys a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of fighting, highlighting that resilience and the capacity to overcome setbacks are crucial for sustained success in the UFC.

9. Legacy and Long-Term Vision

Timestamp [25:23]:
Du Plessis articulates his long-term vision, aiming to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest in MMA history.

Du Plessis: "I'm going there to do... I'm walking out as a champion... I will defeat this boogeyman, and I will prove once again why I'm the best in the world."

His focus is not only on immediate victories but also on building a legacy that will be remembered and respected within the sport.

Notable Quotes:

• Du Plessis on Championship Motivation [04:14]:
  "Once I became champion, I just loved it. I just loved it. And I've been champion for many years outside of the UFC, and once I tasted that gold, I just got hungrier to be great."

• Du Plessis on Fighting Strategy [06:08]:
  "We're in there with the man for 25 minutes... I knew what he was going to do. I knew how he fights."

• Du Plessis on Motivation [19:01]:
  "Passion, legacy and achievement. That's bigger than me... It's about bringing that victory home."

• Du Plessis on Khamzat Chimaev [21:15]:
  "He is an incredibly dangerous opponent... he only wins."

• Du Plessis on Middleweight Depth [27:29]:
  "It's the deepest middleweight has ever been. It's a very exciting time to be."

Conclusion:

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Dricus Du Plessis provides an insightful glimpse into his mindset as a UFC champion. From overcoming the underdog status to meticulously preparing for top-tier opponents like Khamzat Chimaev, Du Plessis demonstrates a blend of strategic intelligence, unwavering motivation, and a commitment to excellence. His reflections on the evolving middleweight division and personal interests add depth to his profile as not just an athlete, but a multifaceted individual striving to leave a lasting legacy in the world of mixed martial arts.