Former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has revealed that ‘beating’ Dricus Du Plessis in their upcoming bout at UFC 305 holds greater significance for him than reclaiming the UFC title.
Adesanya, who has been out of the Octagon for nearly a year, is set to face the South African on August 17 in Perth, Australia, in a fight that has become deeply personal for the Nigerian-born fighter.
“It’s not just about the belt,” Adesanya stated during the UFC 305 Countdown show. “Beating Dricus is more important to me than getting the title back. This fight is about history and proving a point.”
The rivalry between Adesanya and Du Plessis has intensified over the past year, with both fighters exchanging heated words on multiple occasions. The animosity stems from a debate over who can rightfully claim the title of “true” African champion, a narrative that has added an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming clash.
