Adesanya Wants The Du Plessis Fight In South Africa

Israel Adesanya is still intent on fighting Dricus Du Plessis. 

Prior to agreeing to a fight with Sean Strickland, there was an expectation that Adesanya would defend his middleweight title against the South African.

The latter had just beaten Robert Whittaker to stake his claim for the fight. However, a foot issue prevented Du Plessis from taking the bout. This was in addition to the quick turnaround, as a UFC 293 fight was agreed for September 9th, 2023. 

And given the bad blood between them, UFC fans were disappointed not to see the fight get made. Du Plessis first caused controversy when he vowed to become the first African to bring a UFC belt back to his country.

And given that Adesanya does have roots in Nigeria, the champion did not take those comments too well. Adesanya, as such, was keen on getting his revenge by facing Du Plessis in South Africa. 

Adesanya On Du Plessis

“I’m not mad, I’m disappointed. He missed out on his opportunity. That would have been (huge), but again, I think it’s for the greater good. That’s OK. When it happens, it will be one the biggest fights in sporting history. All in due time. It could happen in South Africa. It could happen somewhere on the great continent of Africa. It could happen in Nigeria, Morocco, even South Africa — it would be better if we had it in South Africa. I’d like to whoop his ass in his own home country,” Adesanya

Nevertheless, that all depends on whether Adesanya overcomes Strickland. The latter is in impressive form having won his last two fights.

Victories over Nassourdine Imavov and Abus Magomedov respectively have followed after two back-to-back losses. And given that Strickland is known for his striking prowess, Adesanya will have to be on guard. That is why the champion has vowed to take risks moving forward. 

“I just go for the chances when they’re there. That’s how I fought Anderson Silva. That’s how I fought for the title. You take the chances when they’re there. You don’t wait and hope. So he’ll learn. But we’ll see and I’ll see how I feel, because I call the shots,” Adesanya

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