Israel Adesanya is feeling a bit sour these days. And it’s all because Dricus Du Plessis won’t step into the octagon with him at UFC 300.
Adesanya, the former middleweight champ who lost his title to Sean Strickland at UFC 293, was all geared up for a comeback. He’d been training for weeks, thinking he’d face Du Plessis next. Imagine his disappointment when he found out that fight was a no-go.
“The Last Stylebender” shared his heartbreak on “The MMA Hour.” He was like, “I was ready, man.” Training in Switzerland, getting his hopes up. Then, bam, his manager Tim gives him the news. Just three minutes before they announced Jamahal Hill vs. Alex Pereira. Talk about a gut punch.
Adesanya was especially miffed about finding out through social media. That would’ve been a low blow. Thankfully, Tim gave him a heads-up. Still, Adesanya was left thinking, “What? No!” He was ready for that trailer drop, ready to see his name in lights for UFC 300.
When asked about Du Plessis pulling out due to an injury, Adesanya didn’t mince words. “They’re not built like us,” he said. He pointed out that even when not fully healed, champions like himself, Alexander Volkanovski, and Kamaru Usman would’ve taken the fight. “F—k the belt,” Adesanya declared. He’s got belts at home. For him, it’s about the fight, the legacy.
Du Plessis, on the other hand, seems to be playing it safe. But he’s expressed interest in a future bout with Adesanya at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia. Will we see these two clash in the octagon? Time will tell.
Meanwhile, on Instagram, there’s a post by Du Plessis that’s got everyone talking. What’s next for these fighters? Stay tuned.