UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis acknowledges Conor McGregor for his significant impact on the sport of MMA.
Former UFC dual champion McGregor holds multiple pay-per-view records, engaged in a highly publicized bout with undefeated Floyd Mayweather, and recently made his debut in acting with the remake of “Road House,” sharing the screen with Jake Gyllenhaal.
Du Plessis, who has gained widespread admiration in his native South Africa, speaks highly of McGregor’s influence.
“That guy is a legend in this sport. He’s elevated it to a whole new level,” Du Plessis remarked on “The Sias du Plessis Show.” “What he’s achieved is remarkable and has helped propel the sport into the mainstream.”
While Du Plessis has only briefly interacted with McGregor, he recognizes that public perceptions of the fighter may vary. However, his personal encounters with “The Notorious” have been positive.
“Though some may not warm up to his persona, my personal interactions with him have been pleasant,” Du Plessis noted. “Even if you’re not a fan, you can’t deny the immense impact he’s had on the sport. Every fighter owes him a debt of gratitude for the increased pay and visibility he has brought to MMA. Conor McGregor is undeniably one of the most recognizable figures globally.”
McGregor is set to end his nearly three-year hiatus with a welterweight showdown against Michael Chandler, headlining UFC 303 on June 29 in Las Vegas (available on pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+).