Dricus du Plessis reveals how an unexpected experience with a taser propelled him to UFC 319 world champion status
Dricus du Plessis: The Unorthodox Path to UFC 319 Glory
When Dricus du Plessis steps into the octagon, fans expect unpredictability—and not just in his fighting style. But few imagined that the South African’s journey to becoming a world champion at UFC 319 involved regular encounters with a Taser during training. The revelation has sparked debate in the MMA world about the boundaries of coaching and what it truly means to do “whatever it takes” to win.
The Shocking Method Behind the Madness
Training for a high-stakes fight can be brutal, but for du Plessis, it’s electrifying—literally. Under the supervision of coach Morne Visser, du Plessis and his teammates are punished for repeated mistakes with a Taser-like tool. “Absolutely, multiple times,” du Plessis confirms. “If you make mistakes constantly—you’re getting tased, and that’s it.” Footage surfaced last year showing Visser tasing the soles of du Plessis’ feet, an act both unconventional and controversial in a sport that’s no stranger to harsh regimes.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
With an unbroken streak of nine UFC middleweight victories—the longest in his division—du Plessis’ results are hard to argue with. His recent record includes wins over former champions Sean Strickland, Israel Adesanya, and Robert Whittaker. Heading into UFC 319 in Chicago, the 31-year-old is making his third title defense against another powerhouse, Russia’s Khamzat Chimaev.
Chimaev, also undefeated in his pro career with 14 straight wins, brings his own buzz thanks to headline-worthy victories and a turbulent past impacted by injury, illness, and geopolitical controversy. It’s a showdown fans have been waiting for, and one that both men see as career-defining.
Expert Opinions and Open Debate
The use of a Taser in training has shocked many, with some calling it a step too far. MMA analysts have weighed in, debating whether this approach crosses the ethical line or simply reflects South African grit. Du Plessis himself doesn’t hide his discomfort but stands by the results: “Do I like it? No. But that’s his method and if I don’t like it I can leave that gym any time.”
Critics argue the method borders on unsafe, while supporters claim it’s an example of the sacrifice top athletes make to reach the summit. Others point to du Plessis’ unique, sometimes unorthodox fighting style—an attitude mirrored in his training regime. “I just wanted to be the greatest that has ever done it,” du Plessis states confidently, brushing off doubts about his methods.
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Du Plessis and MMA Training?
Du Plessis’ journey has put the spotlight on how far fighters and coaches will go to secure victory. As UFC 319 approaches, fans are glued to not just the fight itself but the backstory of resilience, controversy, and ambition. Naysayers question whether unconventional methods like these are sustainable or safe in the long term.
As the UFC continues to evolve into a global phenomenon, du Plessis’ success story will undoubtedly fuel discussions about the limits of training and what truly defines a champion. Meanwhile, as new broadcasting deals change the exposure of these athletes worldwide (find out more here), and the roster of fighters continues to shift (read about potential changes), the future of MMA remains as dynamic—and electrifying—as ever.
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Source: www.bbc.com