In a thrilling showdown at UFC 305, South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis successfully defended his middleweight title against Nigeria’s Israel Adesanya, winning by submission in the fourth round.
The fight erupted from a backdrop of heightened pre-fight tensions surrounding race and identity, culminating in Du Plessis’ dramatic victory via rear-naked choke.
Adesanya, a two-time former champion, entered the octagon eager to regain the title he lost to Sean Strickland in September. Despite trailing 2-1 on the scorecards as the fourth round approached, Du Plessis shifted the momentum with powerful hooks and jabs, followed by a pivotal takedown.
Once he secured the choke, Adesanya was forced to submit, marking a significant moment in the championship bout.
The contest commenced with both fighters exhibiting aggression, with Adesanya landing sharp counters and cutting Du Plessis on the forehead early in the fight. However, Du Plessis’ relentless pressure and superior wrestling skills ultimately overwhelmed Adesanya.
The bout was charged with tension, fueled by Du Plessis’ assertion of being the first “real” African UFC champion, a claim that sparked friction with Adesanya.
Adesanya struck first, cutting Du Plessis in the opening round, but Du Plessis regained control in the second with effective wrestling maneuvers, bringing Adesanya down twice.
Intense exchanges characterized the third round as both fighters vied for dominance, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
The submission victory not only reinforces Du Plessis’ status in the middleweight division but also leaves Adesanya reconsidering his future after this hard-fought defeat.
The palpable animosity throughout the fight added to the evening’s excitement, making it a memorable championship encounter.
