We’ve all been anticipating the dramatic showdown between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya. Especially because their African roots created more controversy over which fighter was the more authentic African. But now, to the fans’ disappointment, Du Plessis is no longer up for pursuing the racial narrative building between him and “The Last StyleBender.”
So, continue reading to find out what made him back down from this highly dramatic buildup!
Adesanya expressed displeasure with Du Plessis’ remarks about wanting to be the first true African champion, in which he claimed that Adesanya, Francis Ngannou, and Kamaru Usman all earned championships by competing outside of Africa. These remarks turned the situation personal for Adesanya, who hoped Du Plessis would defeat Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, which he did.
After the fight, Adesanya seized the chance to enter the octagon and hurled many racial epithets at Du Plessis, who finally withdrew from the fight. Du Plessis expressed his views on racial slurs, stating that they have no place in the world of sports or anywhere else in his opinion. He emphasized that he wants to distance himself from any involvement with such language in anything he does. According to him, sport is an incredible platform that has brought numerous opportunities and benefits to many people, and he believes it should remain free from racial slurs.
Du Plessis explained that the introduction of race, color, and racial slurs into the situation caused him to feel a strong aversion, leading him to distance himself from it. He stated that he would not participate in such discussions as it goes against the example he wishes to set for others. According to him, it does not align with the message he wants to convey to people worldwide.
Du Plessis is apparently not prepared for UFC 293 on September 9 in Sydney, according to a video by Adesanya, who recommends Sean Strickland as a replacement. Du Plessis never stated he was out of the battle for good, but he did indicate he wanted to take a beat to at least enjoy the moment before deciding what to do next. Du Plessis mentioned that he would need to take a short holiday after being active in recent times. He expressed the importance of celebrating such moments. Upon returning home, he observed that many were already discussing his potential next fight with Adesanya.
However, he emphasized that he had just defeated Robert Whittaker, whom he considers one of the greatest fighters and his personal hero. Therefore, he chose not to focus on the next fight at the moment. Instead, he wanted to dedicate this week to savoring and celebrating his recent victory.
So, what are your thoughts on his stance on the Adesanya issue? Is it a good time to act on his principles, or should he choose the highly-anticipated bout instead? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
