Dricus Du Plessis is not just a UFC champion; he is a testament to resilience shaped by his roots in South Africa, a country both breathtakingly beautiful and starkly challenging. For Du Plessis, martial arts are more than a career—they’re a way of life, an expression of his identity, and a means to rise above adversity.
Growing up in South Africa, Du Plessis faced challenges that shaped his perspective on life. His childhood home was broken into ten times, a stark reminder of the pervasive unlawful behavior in his homeland. Despite the best security systems—lasers, cameras, and high walls resembling fortresses—perps always found a way. “South African thieves are incredibly resourceful,” Du Plessis remarked. The constant threat required vigilance at all times, even during routine drives or walks.
‘My personal house, that I’m living in now, got broken into already three or four times—attempts. And this becomes a part of reality for us.’
“it happens every day, all the time. And not only in certain areas, in all areas.”
“So yes, it’s about being vigilant in that whole scenario, knowing your surroundings, and at any time, being able to fight for your life. But you can’t live life like that. No. I guess there are people that do and try to rise above that in the sense where there’s a time for that, a time when your life’s on the line.”
“You learn that, and I think that’s what we have—that switch can happen like this. But we’re also able to turn it off when we’re with our family, loved ones, in a normal functioning society, and that’s a very important part.”
Amid such adversity, Du Plessis found strength in his Christian faith and family. His father, Japie Du Plessis, was a guiding force, instilling values of discipline, integrity, and compassion. “He showed me how to be a man,” Du Plessis shared, crediting his upbringing for his steadfast moral compass.
Faith remains a cornerstone of Du Plessis‘ life, influencing his journey as an athlete and a public figure. “I’m a Christian,” he stated unapologetically, embracing the opportunity to inspire young South Africans to overcome challenges through hard work, dedication, and strong values.
From Rugby Fields to MMA Glory
Before making his name in mixed martial arts, Du Plessis was a university-level rugby player. The sport honed his athleticism, but it was his brothers, accomplished judo practitioners, who introduced him to combat sports. Inspired by the success, he left rugby and fully committed to MMA, a decision that proved pivotal.
Du Plessis‘ early MMA career was marked by dominance in grappling, a skill rooted in his family’s martial arts legacy. This expertise was on full display during a quintet-style grappling tournament where he submitted an entire Gracie Barra team, including three black belts. “I wasn’t in great shape,” he admitted, “but I went for the finish with bulldozer strength.”
Dricus Du Plessis opens up on Beating an Entire Gracie Barra Team in Quintet style tournament
“There was this team contest where it had to be five guys in a team,” Du Plessis explained. “One guy grapples the other guy and there’s a time limit. If you don’t finish both are out. If there’s a big weight difference only four minutes, if there’s not a big weight difference it’s eight minutes. If you sub the guy the next guy comes in.”
The South African fighter faced multiple high-level opponents, including three black belts. Despite admitting he wasn’t in peak condition at the time, Du Plessis managed to submit five consecutive opponents.
“I wasn’t in great shape and here we go we start grappling,” he recalled. “I went for that because I said listen I don’t have the gas, so what I’m going to do is I’m going to go and look for that finish as fast as I can. Just use this bulldozer strength and I just went for it.”
Du Plessis noted that many fans may be surprised by his grappling prowess since his recent UFC fights have showcased more striking. “A lot of people don’t know that I love MMA as a sport – I love wrestling, I love grappling and I love striking. I can do all of that and that’s one thing that I pride myself in is wherever the fight goes I am really comfortable anywhere.”
A Champion With a Mission
Du Plessis isn’t just competing for personal glory; he does it for a purpose. As one of South Africa’s most prominent athletes, he uses his platform to inspire others, particularly young people lacking positive role models. “Being a role model is critically important,” he explained. “You need to influence people in a positive manner.”
The Influence of Family and Legacy
Du Plessis’ family has been instrumental in his success. His brother, Niel Du Plessis, is also a former professional mixed martial artist and lawyer, juggling his career while pursuing his passion for combat sports.
The du Plessis brothers’ journey is a reminder of the sacrifices required to achieve greatness.
