Adesanya and Du Plessis highlight African unity in historic UFC 305 clash
The buildup to UFC 305 featured intense tension between Nigeria-born New Zealander Israel Adesanya and South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis. Du Plessis sparked controversy by claiming to be the UFC’s “first real African champion,” a remark that angered Adesanya, who, alongside fellow Africans Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou, had previously held UFC titles.
Although Du Plessis clarified that he referred to being the first champion residing on the continent, the rivalry remained heated.
A memorable main event
Despite the pre-fight animosity, the bout in Perth, Australia, was a landmark event as the first all-African title match in UFC history.
Du Plessis emerged victorious, submitting the 35-year-old Adesanya to retain his middleweight title.
However, the bitterness dissipated post-fight, with both fighters agreeing that Africa was the real winner.
Du Plessis even presented Adesanya with a jacket embroidered with the South African flag as a gesture of respect.
UFC’s African ambitions
The UFC is now eyeing a potential pay-per-view event in Africa, with South Africa as a leading contender.
UFC executive David Shaw acknowledged the challenges of scheduling such an event, particularly regarding time zones, but emphasized the organization’s commitment to bringing UFC to Africa by 2025.
