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The new UFC middleweight Champion, Khamzat Chimaev, dethroned Dricus du Plessis on Sunday morning, with the South African graciously accepting defeat without offering any excuses.
After five rounds at the United Center in Chicago, the judges delivered a unanimous decision in favour of the Russian, declaring him the clear winner.
"The man has incredible control on the top. He is just like blanket, it wasn't a matter of strength, but it was as if he knew what my next move was going to be. Big congratulations to Khamzat, he beat me fair and square, and I'll be back," said the former champ.
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The 31-year-old had a message for his beloved country, many who woke up in the early hours to watch him take on Chimaev.
"Everybody in South Africa, you know this flag means the world to me, and I promise to be back stronger."
Chimaev says his dominant display can be supported by the numbers despite going all five rounds with Du Plessis.
"I tried to go for the finish, I landed a lot of takedowns and strikes, and I didn't gas out, so now the people know."
