Bummer! Dricus du Plessis torpedoes potential UFC Light Heavyweight Grand Prix

October 20, 2026

Former UFC Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has put a halt to speculation about a potential move to Light Heavyweight, despite the promotion’s interest in creating a four-man tournament to crown a new challenger for Carlos Ulberg. Du Plessis, who currently weighs in at around 205 pounds but cuts roughly 45 pounds to compete at Middleweight, was reportedly offered a spot in a proposed Grand Prix featuring himself, Magomed Ankalaev, Jiri Prochazka, and Stirling Knighton.

The plan would have seen the winners of a single-night bracket face Ulberg for a title shot, but du Plessis’ coach, Morne Visser, rejected the idea, citing the need for gradual preparation. Visser emphasized that transitioning from Welterweight to Middleweight took a full year, and a similar process would be required to safely reach Light Heavyweight, where du Plessis would need to develop the necessary power at the higher weight class.

With the UFC’s ambitions for a Light Heavyweight tournament now stalled, du Plessis remains focused on reclaiming his Middleweight title, having already defeated the current champion, Sean Strickland, twice. His next steps could include a rematch with Strickland or a clash with rising contender Brendan Allen, though Visser confirmed du Plessis is ready to return to competition following his recent honeymoon.