Israel Adesanya is set to return to the UFC Octagon at UFC 305, where he will challenge reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. The highly anticipated fight, set to take place in Australia, is Adesanya’s first fight in nearly a year since his unexpected defeat to Sean Strickland at UFC 293. Adesanya was involved in a loss to Strickland is described as an “idle night,” a series of wretched scenes in which he delivers his poor performance. However, du Plessis doesn’t buy this explanation and offered a completely different perspective on the situation.
Du Plessis Rejected Adesanya’s “Off night” Excuse
In an interview, Dricus du Plessis denied Adesanya’s claims that he doesn’t have nights away. According to du Plessis, the issue was not that Adesanya was ineffective, but that Strickland’s fighting style was just Adesanya’s kryptonite. Du Plessis said, “I don’t think Adesanya got that night off; Instead, Strickland’s style completely shut down Izzy’s game. Strickland’s relentless pressure and aggressive forward movement was too much for him.”
Du Plessis detailed the tactical dynamics of the game and noted how Strickland’s system was designed to counter Adesanya’s strengths. “Strickland’s game plan was effective because it disrupted Adesanya’s rhythm. Israel Adesanya lands with consistent speed and accurate strokes, but Strickland’s approach kept him on the back foot, unable to execute his usual game plan,” explained du Plessis
Strickland’s Short-lived Reign
Sean Strickland’s reign as UFC middleweight champion was incredibly brief. After an impressive victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293, Strickland lost the title to Dricus Du Plessis a few weeks later at UFC 297. This quick turnaround added extra interest to an upcoming bout between Adesanya and Du Plessis of the, how Adesanya wanted him to regain the championship belt he lost under bizarre circumstances.
Volkanowski is About the Matchup
Former flying heavyweight champion Alexander Volkanowski has also shared his insights on the upcoming fight. Despite the break after consecutive defeats to Islam Makhachev and Ilya Topuria, Volkanovsky adds a voice to the Adesanya-du Plessis rivalry believing that Israel Adesanya’s performance against Paulo Costa proves he can handle challenges so, even against a strong fighter like du Plessis.
Volkanowski acknowledged the unique challenges posed by du Plessis and described him as “awkward” and “unconventional” in style. “Dricus has a style that can be very difficult to execute, as presented by Strickland,” Volkanowski said. “But I don’t believe Adesanya will fall for such tactics again. His flexibility and consistency make him a formidable opponent. I expect him to come out on top this season.”
As UFC 305 approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Israel Adesanya has a golden opportunity to prove himself and reclaim his title. The fight against Dricus du Plessis not only represents a chance for redemption but also a test of Adesanya’s resilience and adaptability. Meanwhile, du Plessis is looking to cement his position as incumbent and end any lingering doubts about his legitimacy. The clash promises to be an electrifying match that could have huge ramifications for the UFC middleweight division.
