In a thrilling contest at UFC 305, Dricus Du Plessis defeated Israel Adesanya via submission in the fourth round to retain the middleweight championship.
Du Plessis led the fight 2-1 on the judges’ scorecards going into the fourth round, which Adesanya had dominated until a short left hand turned the tide.
Prior to the fight, Du Plessis claimed he was the only African UFC champion, as Adesanya fights out of New Zealand rather than his birthplace of Nigeria. However, after the victory, Du Plessis apologized for his comments, stating, “I’m really sorry that it came across that I disrespected that he never came from Africa – it was never my intention. Africa would have won regardless. Tonight South Africa won. It was an honor to share the cage with a legend like that.”
Adesanya acknowledged making a “stupid, dumb mistake on the ground” that allowed Du Plessis to lock in a rear-naked choke hold. Despite the loss, the 35-year-old former champion has no plans to retire from the UFC.
In the co-main event, New Zealand’s Kai Kara-France secured a first-round knockout victory over Perth fighter Steve Erceg. Brazilian Carlos Prates also delivered a dramatic second-round knockout of Li Jingliang with a vicious left hook.
Dan Hooker and Jairzinho Rozenstruik won split decisions over Mateusz Gamrot and Tua Tuivasa, respectively, on the main card. Hooker expressed his joy after the win, while Rozenstruik thanked the Perth crowd for their support.
The UFC 305 event showcased thrilling performances and unexpected outcomes, with Du Plessis emerging victorious and apologizing for his pre-fight comments, while Adesanya vowed to continue his UFC career despite the loss.
Dricus du Plessis classy in victory! π#UFC305 | Live on TNT Sports & discovery+ pic.twitter.com/Td2vq4fz73
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πΌππΏ πππππππππππππππ@dricusduplessis remains the UFC Middleweight Champion! π#UFC305 | Live on TNT Sports & discovery+ pic.twitter.com/zeqjXdcIwt
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