The UFC middleweight title scene is in CHAOS — again.
Just when fans thought we were finally getting the epic showdown between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, reports are now swirling that Dricus is OUT with an injury, and the whole fight is on the brink of collapse.

Khamzat Chimaev's former opponent shares unexpected prediction for potential Dricus du Plessis clash: “He's like an electric car”

And guess who’s not keeping quiet?
Michael Bisping — UFC Hall of Famer, former champ, and fan-favorite analyst — just dropped a fiery reaction to the breaking news, and he’s calling out fighters, the UFC, and the entire title picture.

Bisping’s Reaction: “You’ve GOT to be kidding me!”

On his latest podcast episode, Bisping didn’t hold back:

“Dricus out again? Bloody hell, this is the second time we’ve had a fight lined up with him and it’s slipped through the cracks. Look, if you’re injured, you’re injured. But the division can’t wait forever.”

Michael Bisping disagrees with Dricus Du Plessis shutting down Khamzat Chimaev as title challenger

He continued:

“Khamzat’s ready. The man hasn’t had a proper fight in months. You’ve got contenders stacking up. If Dricus can’t go, then the UFC’s gotta make moves. Interim title, replacement fight — whatever it is, DO SOMETHING.”

 Classic Bisping — and honestly, a lot of fans are agreeing with him.

Ddp Makes Borz Cry” – Khamzat Chimaev Torn Apart by Dricus Du Plessis as Fans React to Heated Warning - EssentiallySports

Is Dricus Really Injured? What We Know So Far

Reports (unconfirmed by UFC as of now) suggest Dricus has suffered a nagging injury that may keep him out of a summer showdown with Chimaev — possibly pushing the fight back to late 2025, or scrapping it entirely.

This is a huge blow to the UFC’s momentum, especially with Khamzat healthy, hungry, and finally within reach of a title shot. Remember — this matchup was being hyped as one of the biggest middleweight clashes in years.

Now? It’s in serious trouble.

Am I the only one who thinks DDP claps Khamzat? : r/ufc

So What Happens Next?

Bisping had a few strong opinions:

“If Dricus is out, give Khamzat someone else. Maybe Jared Cannonier. Maybe Sean Strickland again. Hell, Caio Borralho’s been chirping — throw him in there for an interim belt!”

“What you can’t do is let the division freeze. We’ve been down that road before with Adesanya injuries, with title rematches. It kills the heat.”

The idea of an interim title is gaining traction fast — especially if Chimaev stays ready and the UFC wants to save a major PPV card.

Report: Dricus Du Plessis out vs. Khamzat Chimaev, UFC 317 main event

Fan Reactions: Twitter Erupts

“This division is cursed. Dricus was the perfect champ storyline — now what??”
“Khamzat needs gold. NOW. Give him anyone.”
“Bisping said what we’re all thinking. You can’t delay forever.”
“Caio Borralho vs Chimaev for interim belt makes sense. Let Dricus heal and face the winner.”

The fanbase is split — some calling for patience with Dricus, others demanding immediate action to keep the middleweight division alive.

 

Final Thoughts: Bisping Speaks For the Fans

Love him or hate him, Michael Bisping always says what’s on his mind — and in this case, he’s echoing what a lot of frustrated UFC fans are feeling:

Dricus Du Plessis is a great champ… but he’s gotta stay healthy to keep the division moving.

Khamzat Chimaev is too dangerous and too popular to be kept on the sidelines.

The UFC needs to act fast — whether it’s interim gold, a new opponent, or a completely rebooked title picture.