Current UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis has consistently emphasized the importance of using his growing platform to promote positive values and faith-based leadership, particularly in his home country of South Africa. During an appearance on the on the Overdogs Podcast a while ago, Du Plessis shared insights into how his Christian faith shapes both his personal life and his approach to being a public figure.
“I’m a Christian,” Du Plessis stated directly when asked about religion. He explained that Christianity is deeply woven into South African culture, noting that “most of South Africa is Christian” while also acknowledging the country’s religious diversity. “We have a very very culture rich country,” he added.
Growing up in South Africa presented numerous challenges, but Du Plessis credits his strong spiritual foundation and moral compass to positive role models, particularly his father. “I had that example – my dad is incredible man and he showed me how to be a man,” he reflected. This guidance proved invaluable during his upbringing in a challenging environment.
Before reaching the pinnacle of mixed martial arts, Du Plessis‘s path included time as a university rugby player. His transition to combat sports was influenced by his brothers, who were accomplished judo practitioners and world champions. This diverse background helped shape him into the well-rounded athlete and role model he is today.
The South African champion recognizes that his position as a UFC star gives him a unique opportunity to be a positive influence, especially for young people in his homeland who may lack strong role models. “Being a role model to somebody that can make more of their life – it’s critically critically important,” Du Plessis explained. “Whether you’re a famous fighter or have any kind of influence, you need to run yourself in a positive way so that you can influence people that are looking up to you in a positive manner.”
Du Plessis previously had to address gay allegations due to getting too handsy with his coach:
“Well, I mean, people thought I was gay because I kissed my coach.”
“And we went to France. Obviously, we said, ‘Oh, we have to do something cool.’ Me and him, we said, ‘Oh, cool. We’re going to do our South African Speedos.’ We did a cool photo in front of the Eiffel Tower, you know, boxed bird, boxed fire. And then we said, ‘Oh, let’s do a gay photo. That would be awesome.’
“So we did it. All the South Africans, every South African, I know was like, ‘That is the most hilarious thing.’ They loved it. And then, all of a sudden, I just see international media going nuts.”
Despite facing significant personal challenges, including living in an area with high rates of unlawful activity, Du Plessis has maintained his focus on being a positive example. His home security experiences highlight the daily challenges many South Africans face: “We have much bigger yards than you’ll see in America but every single house looks like a jail from the outside,” he explained. “We have the best security systems the world has ever seen in South Africa just for a normal home.”
While embracing his role as a public figure, Du Plessis maintains a balanced perspective, acknowledging he’s still human while striving to “promote hard work, promote dedication to your craft.” After a recent victory celebration drew attention, Du Plessis reflected: “I didn’t put up my hand to be the head boy, to be the guy to be Mr. Do It All Right. But what I can do is promote hard work, promote dedication to your craft and that you can do whatever you set your mind to.”
Through his platform as one of South Africa’s most prominent athletes, Du Plessis hopes to demonstrate that success is possible through dedication and faith, even while staying true to oneself. His journey from rugby player to UFC champion serves as living proof that with the right values and work ethic, people can overcome challenging circumstances to achieve their dreams.
Du Plessis‘s commitment to his faith appears to ground him amid the pressures of championship-level performance while fueling his desire to inspire others. Through his openness about his Christian beliefs and dedication to being a positive example, he demonstrates how personal values can shape both athletic achievement and broader life mission beyond the octagon.
