Christian Leroy Duncan eyes Dricus Du Plessis — or a straight title shot — after UFC Vegas 122: ‘I don’t see why not’

British middleweight Christian Leroy Duncan is eyeing a title shot—or a fight with former champion Dricus Du Plessis—if he defeats Brendan Allen in the main event of UFC Vegas 122 this weekend at the Meta APEX. Duncan, riding a five-fight winning streak after a July unanimous decision over Jared Cannonier, believes a dominant performance against the fourth-ranked Allen could position him for a shot at UFC champion Sean Strickland, especially if financial obstacles continue to delay a Strickland versus Nassourdine Imavov matchup.

Duncan told MMA Fighting he sees no reason why a win shouldn't earn him title consideration. "I feel that I'm ready and I'll make sure that I'm ready for that time when it comes," the former Cage Warriors champion said. He noted that fighting ranked opposition throughout 2024—including a top-15 fighter, top-10 contender Cannonier, and now top-five Allen—shows the natural progression toward a former champion next. Duncan has specifically mentioned Du Plessis as a potential next step, with a possible showdown in London during the first quarter of 2027.

Regarding the anticipated Strickland-Imavov title fight, Duncan respects both men but believes Strickland's ability to deliver upsets and perform against the odds makes the outcome unpredictable. "Imavov poses a lot of problems for Strickland, and Strickland is a very awkward and difficult guy to deal with," Duncan said. He added that Strickland has proven capable in fights where the odds weren't in his favor.

Allen, a 19-fight UFC veteran, presents a clear test. The submission specialist has recorded back-to-back grappling finishes and won most of his bouts via submission. Duncan expects a dangerous, competitive fight that likely won't reach the final rounds. "I don't expect it to go to four or five rounds," Duncan said, noting he and his team are prepared for Allen's multi-faceted skillset, from wrestling to striking. Duncan expressed confidence that he will make the right decisions in key moments to secure a statement victory.