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.
Adesanya’s last appearance in the Octagon was a surprising loss to Sean Strickland, where he was outclassed in a one-sided decision. The defeat marked a significant setback for Adesanya, who had previously reigned as one of the most dominant middleweight champions in UFC history.
However, the loss also provided him the motivation to focus on his next challenge, which he sees as more than just a title fight.
“For me, it’s about beating warriors from different backgrounds, different nations,” Adesanya said.
“Fighters like Dricus, taking them out, putting them on my record, and moving on to the next one. That’s what it’s about.”
Adesanya has spent his time away from the sport, bulking up and recovering from injuries, and according to his teammate DanHooker.
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