Dricus du Plessis isn’t known for holding back his thoughts—and he just proved it once again. Following Sharabutdin “Bullet” Magomedov’s bloody war and unanimous decision victory over Marc-Andre Barriault at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi on July 26, the reigning UFC middleweight champion fired off a brutally blunt, four-word response that’s now rocking the MMA world:

“Well done Cyclops/leprechaun.”

The savage jab comes just weeks before du Plessis defends his UFC middleweight title against the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 319 on August 16. But instead of staying focused solely on his own camp, the South African champion decided to publicly take aim at one of the division’s most intriguing rising threats.

Magomedov’s Violent Win Over Barriault Raises Eyebrows

Despite suffering what appeared to be a broken nose, Shara “Bullet” Magomedov showcased serious toughness and technical superiority against the durable Canadian, winning with all three judges scoring the bout 30-27.

Barriault landed a flush strike in the first round that shattered Magomedov’s nose, leaving blood pouring across the Octagon. But even with his face battered, Magomedov swept the final two rounds, keeping his composure and landing a series of pinpoint accurate combinations.

Magomedov’s record now stands at:

• 18 fights

• 17 wins

• 1 loss

• 12 KOs

• 5 decisions

• 0 submissions

While not yet ranked in the top-15 of the UFC middleweight division, Magomedov is beginning to stir up serious interest—not just among fans but apparently from du Plessis, who didn’t waste time to chime in.

“Well Done Cyclops/Leprechaun”: Du Plessis’ Brutal Mockery

The four-word comment unleashed by Dricus du Plessis immediately sparked heated reactions. On the surface, the insult seems to target Magomedov’s unique look, particularly referencing his damaged or removed right eye, which has been part of his public backstory for years.

Magomedov has previously revealed that his right eye was surgically removed due to an injury sustained in Thailand. He underwent multiple procedures to try and save the eye but ultimately followed doctors’ advice to remove it entirely. Since returning to MMA in 2021, he has been fighting with only one functional eye, a condition that has drawn comparisons to Michael Bisping, the former UFC champion who also competed with partial vision.

Yet despite this challenge, Magomedov has gone 5-1 since returning to action, proving that even depth perception issues can’t halt his rise.

Du Plessis Sending a Message: Threat or Troll?

With du Plessis expected to face the ultra-aggressive Khamzat Chimaev in just three weeks, some fans wondered why he would even bother commenting on a non-contender like Magomedov. But that four-word post may have been strategic.

The jab feels like a subtle way to establish psychological dominance—not just over Magomedov but the entire 185-pound division. It shows du Plessis is watching everyone and isn’t shy about calling out those gunning for his belt, whether they’re ranked or not.

On the other hand, some see it as an unnecessary and disrespectful cheap shot. The phrase “Cyclops” is a direct reference to Magomedov’s single-eye condition, while “leprechaun” possibly mocks his look or persona. Fans on social media were quick to react:

“Why is du Plessis picking on someone who just bled for 15 minutes and still won?”

“That’s low, even for a champ. Disability isn’t a joke.”

“He better focus on Chimaev. Bullet is coming.”

Is Magomedov a Future Threat to the Throne?

It’s easy to write off Magomedov’s threat level due to his unranked status, but his performances suggest a future clash with du Plessis—or whoever holds the belt—might be inevitable. He brings a combination of Muay Thai precision, durability, and now, resilience, proving he can adapt in the heat of battle.

Moreover, the attention from du Plessis only elevates Magomedov’s name further. Whether intentional or not, the South African champion just poured fuel on a potential rivalry, even if it’s one that’s still months or years away from materializing.

And let’s not forget: Magomedov has a chip on his shoulder. Fighting with one eye, he’s already dealt with doubt and skepticism. Add public mockery from the champ? That could be the exact motivation he needs to fast-track his title run.

Magomedov’s Bisping Inspiration

Magomedov has often referenced Michael Bisping’s title win as a source of inspiration. The British fighter famously won the UFC middleweight championship in 2016, despite competing with one functional eye for years.

Like Bisping, Magomedov doesn’t want his condition to define or limit him. Instead, he’s building a legacy on grit, striking skill, and persistence. The recent win against Barriault, under intense adversity, may have solidified his spot as one of the most mentally tough fighters in the division.

Whether du Plessis’ words cut deep or bounce off, only time will tell.

What’s Next?

For Dricus du Plessis, the path forward is clear: UFC 319 on August 16, where he’ll collide with Khamzat Chimaev in one of the most explosive middleweight title fights in recent memory. A win over Chimaev would likely cement du Plessis as a generational champion.

As for Shara Magomedov, he may not be next in line, but with another win or two, his stock will skyrocket. And if he does reach title contention, you can bet his first words will be aimed right back at the man who mocked him.

Until then, Magomedov can smile knowing he forced the champ to watch—and react.

The battle in Abu Dhabi was physical, but the war of words has only just begun.