Israel Adesanya tried to verbally chew Dricus Du Plessis’ head off at UFC 290. However, his little showdown didn’t bode well with Du Plessis. Continue reading to find out what went wrong in their interaction.
Adesanya entered the ring for a promotional faceoff after Du Plessis defeated Robert Whittaker at T-Mobile Arena. Although there were no physical confrontations, there was plenty of trash-talking by Adesanya as tensions between the two combatants of African descent grew.
Du Plessis stated that he was prepared for anything and everything that his opponent said. He expressed his disappointment in his opponent’s behavior, referring to it as clownish and unbecoming of a champion. Du Plessis believed that such behavior was immature, more fitting for a child than a grown man. He emphasized the importance of conducting oneself with the dignity and grace expected of a champion. He acknowledged that if his opponent’s antics sold tickets, it was their prerogative, but he would choose to sell tickets in his own manner. Du Plessis described himself as a gentleman and vowed to behave as such, asserting his commitment to acting like a responsible adult.
Du Plessis is anticipated to take on Israel Adesanya at UFC 293, which takes place on September 9 in Sydney, Australia. However, the matchup hasn’t been formally announced, as Du Plessis competed just hours before. Nevertheless, Du Plessis fancies his chances if he manages to capture Adesanya.
Du Plessis confidently declared that he would replicate his knockout victory from that night against “The Last Stylebender.” He believed that if he could take his opponent to the ground, the fight would be completely one-sided and not even a contest. Du Plessis expressed his intent to overpower Adesanya, emphasizing that he had done it before and would do it again. He dismissed his opponent’s striking abilities, stating that they should be disregarded, as one’s worth is determined by their most recent performance.
He compared his own performance against Whittaker to Adesanya’s, highlighting that while his opponent narrowly defeated Whittaker, his own victory showcased a dominant display. Du Plessis outlined his strategy for defeating his opponent, which involved executing the game plan devised by his coaches and relying on his unique, unconventional fighting style.
Moreover, he credited his gym, CIT, a small establishment in South Africa, for formulating effective game plans. Despite his unconventional approach, Du Plessis asserted his position as the current top contender in the world, demanding the recognition and respect he believed he deserved.
What are your thoughts on the little showdown between Du Plessis and Izzy Adesanya? Let us know in the comments!
