Though the young hooker has gone from strength to strength this season, his opposite man on Saturday at the Altrad Stadium has 79 Springbok caps and a Webb Ellis cup to his name.
Despite the gulf in experience, the 22-year-old is both confident and excited for his European showdown and hopes it could one day lead to a Wales call-up.
"When you play someone with a big reputation you want to test yourself. Every player wants to be the best they can and what better way than up against a world-class player like Bismarck," he said.
"I've always looked at him and, though he's a bit of a different shape for a hooker, he's an immensely physical guy and has been one of the top hookers in the world since I was young.
"When you are out on the field, it's just man against man. You've got to embrace it and try and have the upper hand on your opponent.
"The better standard of rugby you play the better player you become. It's a dream of mine to play for Wales and good performances in matches like this can only help."
Kingsley Jones' side battled past Gloucester Rugby thanks to Charlie Davies' late try at Kingsholm, but with du Plessis and his brother Jannie, along with Francois Steyn and Pierre Spies all plying their trade in Montpellier - not to mention Jake White at the helm, the Men of Gwent have plenty on their hands.
Nevertheless, Dee insists his teammates are raring to go.
"I can't wait - it's a massive game for us. We got to the semis last year and want to go one further this season," he added.
"We've played some exciting stuff in Europe this campaign and it was a massive buzz after the Gloucester game. It's why you play the game and you can't beat days like that.
"It's brilliant to be involved in the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup and a lot of people will be watching."
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