Gayton McKenzie has heaped praise on Dricus du Plessis after he lost his middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 on Saturday.
The undefeated Russian fighter dominated his five-round match against the South African MMA star.
Minutes after he was dethroned of his title, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie praised Dricus du Plessis for his efforts.
He posted from his X account: Dricus du Plessis, you made us proud as one of the great champions, and we know you will be back. You faced a tough wrestler today, but you will come back stronger.
It was hard to watch, but you never gave up. You almost had him, and youll always be a legend. Chin up.
Gaytons post comes after he consoled the Springboks, who lost 38-22 to the Wallabies at Ellis Park on Saturday.
He tweeted, Were still proud of you guys. A stumble on the road is part of all journeys. Lets get them next week. Go Bokke.
Khamzat Borz Chimaev dominated Dricus Stillknocks du Plessis in a lopsided affair to capture the UFC middleweight title at UFC 319. Image: UFC In his interview after his defeat, Dricus du Plessis praised his opponent, Khamzat Chimaev.
He said, He deserves this 100 percent. He beat me fair and square tonight; he was the better man.
Dricus vowed to avenge his loss and win his belt back.
He added, Ill be back stronger and better than ever.
Addressing his home country, Dricus continued: To everybody in South Africa, you all know this flag means the world to me. I am sorry to anyone I let down.
Ill be back stronger. South Africans, we rise and fight through adversity, and we will show the world that they still dont know what we know.
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