Dricus Du Plessis wants to fight Israel Adesanya in UFC Africa

Following his remarkable victory over Sean Strickland to claim the middleweight title at UFC 297 in January, Pretoria native Dricus du Plessis has set his sights on a historic clash with UFC superstar Israel Adesanya, expressing his desire to make UFC Africa a reality.

Du Plessis made history by becoming the UFC's first South African champion with a hard-fought split decision win over Strickland. However, for Adesanya, it was originally envisioned to be him facing du Plessis inside the Octagon.

After du Plessis' impressive victory over Robert Whittaker, which effectively positioned him as a top contender, tensions escalated between him and Adesanya. The two engaged in a heated exchange, with Adesanya unleashing a notorious, expletive-laden tirade in anticipation of a potential showdown.

Despite the buildup, Adesanya's plans were derailed when he failed to secure victory against Strickland and subsequently announced a hiatus from the sport. However, du Plessis remains undeterred, eager to face the UFC's former middleweight champion and bring the UFC spectacle to Africa.

Speaking on teammate Cameron Saaiman's podcast, du Plessis expressed his fervent desire for UFC Africa, envisioning a monumental showdown against Adesanya on South African soil. He emphasized the significance of such an event for both himself and Adesanya, highlighting their shared African heritage.

"If they want to do it this year, I will wait for that fight because that is the fight to make, that is a legacy fight for both of us," du Plessis stated. "I think it would mean the world to do this in Africa. He claimed he'd drag my carcass around South Africa so let's make that happen."

While acknowledging the animosity between them, du Plessis also acknowledged Adesanya's prowess as a fighter, recognizing his undeniable skill and accomplishments in the sport.

"Regardless of what I think of him on a personal level, as a fighter, there's no way you can disrespect him, he is truly good," du Plessis remarked.

ALSO READ | Israel Adesanya reacts to the win of Sean O Malley at UFC 299

As the anticipation builds for a potential showdown between du Plessis and Adesanya, fans eagerly await the possibility of witnessing history being made in the heart of Africa, as two formidable fighters collide in what promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.

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