The Backstory: A Feud Born Out of Controversy
The rivalry between du Plessis and Adesanya isn’t just about the title; it’s deeply personal. Their feud began when du Plessis made comments that seemed to discredit Adesanya, Francis Ngannou, and Kamaru Usman as true African champions. Du Plessis, hailing from South Africa, claimed to be the authentic African champion, a statement that struck a nerve with Adesanya, who was born in Nigeria but represents New Zealand.
“He tried to discredit the three kings and say that he is the real true African champion, and I was just like, it’s a weird mindset," Adesanya recounted during the press conference. "He came to the UFC, I knew who he was a little bit but I didn’t go ‘Who the f*** is this fake dude coming in’, I just said cool, he’s another African in the UFC.”
The Champions’ Journey
Du Plessis’ ascension to the middleweight throne came earlier this year at UFC 297 when he defeated Sean Strickland. This victory not only crowned him as the champion but also set the stage for the much-anticipated clash with Adesanya. For Adesanya, this fight represents a chance to reclaim his legacy and address unfinished business.
Despite no longer holding the title, Adesanya remains a formidable presence in the sport. Reflecting on his career and the upcoming fight, he stated, “It still feels that way, never changes, I am Israel Adesanya, you know, there’s always going to be a target on my back.”
Intense Press Conference and Staredown
The press conference was marked by a fiery exchange of words and an intense face-off between the two fighters. Adesanya, who has taken a break from competition to recharge, spoke about his renewed approach to training and life, including taking up golf. Du Plessis seized the moment to jab at Adesanya’s new hobby, saying, “I’m glad you took up golf because, you know, that’s a retirement sport.”
Their face-off was a spectacle, with both fighters refusing to back down. Du Plessis later revealed to Submission Radio, “As far as I know he said, ‘Don’t go kissing me’ and I said ‘I’m no dog so I won’t’. In my opinion, I think this is him trying to convince himself that he still wants to do this.”
With UFC 305 rapidly approaching, the animosity between du Plessis and Adesanya ensures that their title fight will be one for the ages. Both fighters have a point to prove, and their clash on August 17 is set to entertain fans around the world. As the date draws nearer, the tension only builds, promising an unforgettable night in Perth, Australia.
