"Those are rookie numbers."
Former UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has dismissed Khamzat Chimaev's weight cut excuse following his loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328.
Kimaev reportedly cut 12 pounds in the last 24 hours before the fight. Du Plessis called the admission a "ridiculous" excuse, arguing that such a cut is not severe and that poor weight management is no justification for defeat.
"I think this whole weight cut excuse is ridiculous," du Plessis said. "Those are rookie numbers. That is not that bad."
He emphasized that fighters must take responsibility for their performances.
"It's on you. Be more disciplined and the weight cut would be easier. When you get to Octagon, there is no excuse. Don't make any excuses. There are no excuses."