Israel Adesanya has responded gracefully after being called out by the newly crowned UFC middleweight champion, Dricus Du Plessis.
Du Plessis had his shot at UFC gold in Toronto, challenging Sean Strickland for the undisputed 185lbs title. His journey to this pinnacle included a second-round TKO victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, marking his eighth consecutive win. Originally slated for a showdown with Adesanya at UFC 293, injuries sidelined ‘Stillknocks,’ and Strickland seized the opportunity.
The anticipated clash between Adesanya and Du Plessis took an unexpected turn as Strickland delivered a masterful performance, securing a unanimous decision victory over Adesanya.
UFC Star Israel Adesanya Eyes Middleweight Title Once More
Elevated to serve as Strickland’s first title defense, Du Plessis faced him in Toronto. The bout lived up to expectations, with both fighters engaging in a thrilling twenty-five-minute battle. The judges’ decision reflected the close contest, with Du Plessis declared the winner on two of the three scorecards, earning him the middleweight championship.
In his post-fight speech, Du Plessis seized the moment to call out Adesanya for their long-awaited grudge match. “I’m really enjoying this,” he expressed, gesturing to his UFC title belt. “Israel Adesanya, get your ass back in the UFC so we can settle the score.”
The Former Champ Responds to Challenge
Adesanya, not one to shy away, promptly responded on ‘X,’ acknowledging the inevitable clash. “✨ISRAEL 🐉 ADÉSÀNYÀ‼️ This arc in my story was written long ago. Our paths are destined to cross again. Stay tuned for the next episode, thanks for watching. We Write History ✨✍🏾”
UFC CEO Dana White is also on board with the prospect of a grudge match between Du Plessis and Adesanya, possibly at UFC 300, adding anticipation to the unfolding saga in the middleweight division.
The victory over Strickland moved Du Plessis to 20-2 in his professional mixed martial arts career. Meanwhile, Strickland fell to 28-5. Do you think we seen Israel Adesanya vs. Dricus du Plesiss at UFC 300?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
