Israel Adesanya reveals why Dricus du Plessis bout will be a heated showdown

Nigerian-born UFC fighter Israel Adesanya has discovered peace in playing barefoot golf, yet his upcoming bout with South African middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is anything but serene.

On August 18, Adesanya and du Plessis will clash for the middleweight title at Perth’s RAC Arena. This fight is more than just a title defense for Adesanya; it’s a statement against du Plessis, who previously discredited the African heritage of champions Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou.

The tension began when du Plessis declared his ambition to be the “first real African champ,” a statement that did not sit well with Adesanya. Despite being raised primarily in New Zealand, Adesanya, born in Nigeria, considers himself and fellow African-born fighters Ngannou and Usman as true representatives of African excellence in the UFC.

At a press conference in Perth, the 34-year-old Adesanya confronted du Plessis, expressing his anger over the South African’s remarks.

“He tried to discredit three kings and say he’s the real true African champion. It’s a weird mindset,” Adesanya stated. “For him to discredit me, Francis Ngannou, Kamaru Usman, that ticked me off a little bit. That’s what started this, but again I’ll finish it.”

Du Plessis attempted to clarify his previous comments but Adesanya remained unmoved, vowing to show du Plessis “where he comes from.” In response, du Plessis made a light-hearted jab, suggesting he would send Adesanya back to the golf course, referencing Adesanya’s newfound hobby.

Adesanya, who took an 11-month break from UFC competition to recover from an intense regimen that saw him fight five times in eighteen months, now feels rejuvenated and ready for battle.

The press conference culminated in a heated, 80-second staredown between Adesanya and du Plessis, which organizers had to break up. The intensity of the confrontation promises a highly charged encounter when they meet in the octagon.

As UFC 305 approaches, the anticipation for the Adesanya vs. du Plessis fight continues to build. Adesanya’s determination to defend his title and assert his African heritage against du Plessis’ controversial claims sets the stage for an explosive showdown in Perth.