"Bro is sparring Khamzat "- Dricus du Plessis' recent sparring photos amid speculations about next fight ignites hyped-up fan reactions

Fans recently reacted after photos of Dricus du Plessis' recent sparring sessions surfaced on social media amid speculation of his next title defense. They noted that the photos could signify who he is preparing for as his sparring partner resembled another middleweight contender.

There has been plenty of speculation about who the South African will be fighting next as a rematch against Sean Strickland appeared to be in the works. But Khamzat Chimaev also inserted himself in the title picture following his dominant submission win over former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker.

'Stillknocks' recently posted photos from his sparring sessions on his Instagram account along with a caption saying that he plans to showcase more tools in his arsenal.

Check out Dricus du Plessis' post below:

Fans weighed in and shared their thoughts on the reigning middleweight champion preparing for his next title defense. Some mentioned that one of the sparring partners resembled Chimaev, while others suggested Du Plessis push for a bout against 'Borz' rather than Strickland:

"First guy looks like a Khamzat look alike [laughing emoji] visualization game on point"

"Bro is sparring Khamzat [laughing emoji]"

"Is that a Khamzat look alike? Taking the game to another level getting your sparring partners to look like the opponents [laughing and fire emojis]"

Check out the fan reaction comments regarding Dricus du Plessis' sparring photos below:

Fan reactions regarding du Plessis' sparring photos [Image courtesy: @dricusduplessis on Instagram]

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Khamzat Chimaev reschedules Australia tour to February during UFC 312 ft. Dricus du Plessis

In addition to Dricus du Plessis sparking a reaction with his latest sparring photos, Khamzat Chimaev also stirred speculation after he postponed his Australia tour from December to February.

'Borz' will be heading to Australia from Feb. 8 to 15, which also happens to be the same time Du Plessis is reportedly scheduled to defend his middleweight championship at UFC 312. The event takes place in Sydney, Australia on Feb. 8.

Based on Chimaev's latest Instagram post announcing the change, it could signify that he will either be in attendance to challenge the winner of Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2 or he will be challenging the South African in the headliner:

"My Australia tour, which was planned for December, will now be rescheduled to February due to some unforseen events. I apologize to my fans in Australia, but I promise it will be worth the wait. I'm coming for everybody in February. See you soon. Smesh everybody!"