Brendan Allen Accused Dricus du Plessis of Avoiding Fight
Brendan Allen claimed his former potential opponent intentionally bypassed their bout for an easier matchup.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
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Brendan Allen has accused Dricus du Plessis of avoiding their potential matchup in January 2026. Allen alleges that du Plessis chose to fight Kamaru Usman instead because he viewed it as a less challenging path.
Why it matters
This public accusation highlights the strategic maneuvering within the middleweight division regarding opponent selection and perceived difficulty. It suggests that high-level fighters may avoid specific matchups in favor of paths they deem more favorable for their career trajectory.
Brendan Allen holds a professional record of 27-7 with three consecutive wins, while Christian Leroy Duncan enters with a 15-2 record and five straight victories. The division is currently defined by these records as fighters jockey for positioning.
The players
Brendan Allen
He is a professional mixed martial artist who is currently competing in the middleweight division.
Dricus du Plessis
He is a prominent fighter who recently secured a victory over Kamaru Usman.
Kamaru Usman
He is a veteran fighter who lost by unanimous decision to Dricus du Plessis.
Christian Leroy Duncan
He is an rising middleweight fighter currently riding a five-fight win streak.
The details
Allen claimed he was informed of an injury to du Plessis in January 2026, which sidelined their potential bout. Du Plessis subsequently moved forward to defeat Kamaru Usman by unanimous decision in July 2026.
Timeline
A potential matchup between Allen and du Plessis was discussed in January 2026.
Dricus du Plessis defeated Kamaru Usman in July 2026.
Brendan Allen is scheduled to face Christian Leroy Duncan on October 10, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This dispute adds tension to the middleweight landscape as fighters look to maintain their rankings. The outcome of the fight at UFC Vegas 122 will directly impact how the division shakes out leading into the next calendar year.
Brendan Allen will face Christian Leroy Duncan at UFC Vegas 122 on October 10, 2026. This fight serves as a critical test for Allen, who looks to extend his three-fight win streak against a significantly hotter opponent in Duncan.
The takeaway
Fighter rivalries are often driven by behind-the-scenes negotiations and the pursuit of favorable matchups. Staying informed on these dynamics provides a clearer picture of why specific bouts are made or missed at the sport's highest levels.
Further reading
For more news on upcoming matchups in the division, visit Mixed Martial Arts.
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