I’m sorry, South Africa, says Du Plessis after defeat

CHECHEN-BORN MMA superstar Khamzat Chimaev broke South Africa's Dricus du Plessis' nine-fight UFC winning streak to become the new Middleweight champion of the world today.

- JULIAN KIEWIETZ

"In the last round I went for it... I almost had it... but it didn't happen." said Du Plessis after the fight, apologising to South Africa for "letting you down".

Fighting out of the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, Chimaev dominated Du Plessis over five rounds with elite grappling and wrestling to which Du Plessis had no answer.

From the first round, Chimaev enjoyed early takedowns and top control as he restricted Du Plessis' movement and breathing with a beautiful crucifix.

For more than two minutes, Chimaev had the South African in that position as he tapped away at his head with strikes; however, the close range at which he was launching did little damage, hence the referee's inability to stop the fight so soon. Du Plessis did well to tuck his head into the UAE-based star's body to avoid maximum damage.

In round two, Du Plessis attacked with his trademark high kick, but it paid little dividends as Chimaev defended it before shooting for another takedown and transitioning to the former's back.