South Africans are taunting Nigerians after UFC fighter Dricus Du Plessis defended his title against Nigeria-born Israel Adesanya.
In a thrilling showdown at UFC 305, the reigning UFC middleweight champion secured his title with a dramatic fourth-round submission victory over former champ Israel Adesanya. Despite being in a tough spot, he turned the fight around spectacularly to claim his first title defence.
Dricus Du Plessis Defends Title Against Israel Adesanya
The fight kicked off with two closely contested rounds, but Adesanya took control in the third, landing precise body shots that had him as the clear favourite. Du Plessis, the bigger fighter, struggled with his takedowns and was visibly enjoying the battle until a powerful strike in the fourth round rattled Adesanya, giving the South African an opening to take him to the ground.
Reflecting on his performance, Adesanya admitted:
“I just made a stupid, dumb mistake on the ground.”
Du Plessis capitalized on that error, locking in a rear naked choke that forced Adesanya to tap out. With this victory, du Plessis extended his unbeaten streak in the UFC, even as the crowd in Perth, Australia, rooted against him.
For Adesanya, it was a crushing defeat. He was aiming to make history as the second fighter to achieve three separate reigns with a UFC belt, following in the footsteps of Randy Couture. His striking was sharp, and he seemed on track for either a decision win or a knockout from accumulating body shots.
However, the stunning turn of events left him with few immediate prospects for another title shot. Although there was some chatter about retirement in the Octagon, Adesanya shut it down, declaring, “I’m not f***ing leaving.”
ALSO READ: What Did Dricus Du Plessis Say To Make Israel Adesanya Cry At The UFC 305 Press Conference?
“Nigerians In The Mud”
South Africans online had a good time following Du Plessis’ win.
Pov:
“We own Nigeria✌️🇿🇦”
Masego:
“Nigeria getting an a** whooping from SA everyday. 🤣🤣🇿🇦🇿🇦”
Chris:
“Another day of cooking Nigerians …🇿🇦“
Thapelo:
“Jollofians are so upset right now.”