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CHICAGO – Dricus Du Plessis is making a serious claim for the middleweight GOAT title after a stunning performance at UFC 319. The South African powerhouse secured a decisive victory in the main event at the United Center (ESPN+ pay-per-view), further solidifying his position as a top contender and hinting at a future where he could challenge the very best the division has ever seen.

Du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC) delivered a masterful display of striking and grappling, showcasing the well-rounded skillset that has propelled him through the ranks. While he remained tight-lipped on specific opponents, his post-fight comments were clear: he's aiming for the pinnacle of the middleweight division.

“I think I’d be very close,” Du Plessis stated confidently after the fight. “There’s always room for improvement, but I’m constantly evolving and getting better. I'm proving myself with every fight and moving closer to that ultimate goal.”

The conversation surrounding the middleweight GOAT is typically dominated by names like Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Israel Adesanya. Silva, with his mesmerizing striking and record-breaking title reign, remains the gold standard for many. St-Pierre, known for his unparalleled wrestling and strategic brilliance, is another strong contender. And Adesanya, with his dynamic striking and dominant championship run, has entered the conversation as a modern great.

Du Plessis understands the weight of these comparisons. He acknowledges the legacies of these legends but believes his own trajectory is pointing towards a similar level of greatness. His current winning streak, coupled with his impressive performances against high-level opponents, has fueled the growing belief that he’s a legitimate threat to the throne.

What sets Du Plessis apart is his relentless pressure and his ability to adapt his game plan. He's not afraid to engage in striking exchanges, but he also possesses a dangerous grappling game that can quickly turn the tide of a fight. This versatility makes him a difficult matchup for anyone in the division.

The path to GOAT status won’t be easy. Du Plessis knows he has to continue to elevate his game and overcome the challenges that lie ahead. The middleweight division is stacked with talent, and he'll need to consistently deliver dominant performances to silence the doubters and solidify his claim.

The UFC 319 victory was a significant step in that direction. It proved that Du Plessis is not just a contender, but a force to be reckoned with. As he continues his ascent, the world will be watching to see if he can truly etch his name among the middleweight greats and achieve the ultimate goal of becoming the division’s GOAT.

For now, Du Plessis remains focused on the present, celebrating his victory and preparing for his next challenge. But the dream of becoming the middleweight GOAT is clearly driving him, and his journey towards that goal promises to be a captivating one.