Du Plessis defeats Adesanya via submission, retain UFC Middleweight title

South Africa’s Drisus du Plessis defeated Israel Adesanya via submission to retain his UFC middleweight title.

Adesanya was forced to tap out in the fourth round after Du Plessis locked in a rear-naked choke, ending the bout held in Australia early Sunday.

The Nigerian-New Zealander, a former two-time champion, entered the fight determined to reclaim the belt he lost to Sean Strickland in September 2023.

Du Plessis had secured the title by defeating Strickland in January and proved to be a formidable opponent for Adesanya in their grudge match.

READ ALSO: Strickland upsets Nigeria’s Adesanya to win middleweight title

The rivalry between the two fighters dates back to 2023, when Du Plessis stated his desire to become “the first real African champion” in the UFC—a remark that offended Adesanya, who saw it as a slight against himself and other African champions like Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou.

Du Plessis later clarified that his goal was to be the first UFC champion born, living, and training in Africa, unlike Adesanya, Usman, and Ngannou, who did not live or train on the continent during their reigns.

The tension between the fighters was evident throughout the bout, marked by an intense exchange of punches and kicks. Adesanya struck first, opening a deep cut on Du Plessis’ forehead early in the fight.

However, the South Africa’s superior grappling skills prevailed as the fight progressed, leaving Adesanya with no choice but to tap out as he struggled for air.