Dricus Du Plessis, the South African UFC middleweight champion, has seen his net worth skyrocket along with his success in the octagon. As of 2025, estimates place his net worth between $3 million and $5 million. While he's not one to flaunt his wealth, those UFC paychecks have certainly been adding up since he claimed the middleweight title.
Just last year, after defending his title a couple of times, reports indicated he earned over $3 million for a single fight. This kind of money quickly elevates a fighter from a “scrappy contender” to someone set for life.
It's remarkable to consider that he was once grinding in regional promotions, and now he's headlining pay-per-view events and attracting endorsement deals. While exact figures are hard to come by due to the UFC's reluctance to disclose full contracts, reported purses and sponsorship deals suggest a fighter who has entered the multimillion-dollar tier. Conservative estimates placed his net worth in the low to mid seven figures during his title rise, then several million by 2025 as championship paydays and endorsements kicked in.
The Rise of 'Stillknocks'
Du Plessis's journey is a testament to his knockout power and unwavering determination. At 31, he’s not just holding the belt; he's defending it against formidable opponents. He boasts an impressive 23-2 record overall, remaining undefeated in the UFC and currently holding the #4 spot in the pound-for-pound rankings as of mid-2025.
Key Earnings Moments
Public payout tables estimated Du Plessis's title win at UFC 297 earned him around $532,000, plus a $32,000 UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance payment. His first title defense against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 saw estimates jump to around $1.94 million. Before the belt, his career earnings were well under $1 million. The title run transformed his income profile almost overnight.
- UFC 297 (Title Win): Estimated $532,000 + $32,000
- UFC 305 (vs. Adesanya): Estimated $1.94 million
PPV points and high-profile fights significantly boosted Du Plessis's earnings. UFC 297 and UFC 305 fit this mold perfectly. While the exact PPV splits remain undisclosed, these events were pivotal in his financial success.
It's a true rags-to-riches story that makes you root for the underdog, even if he's the champ now. From humble beginnings to UFC stardom, Dricus Du Plessis's financial journey mirrors his incredible rise in the world of mixed martial arts.