Nigerian-born UFC star Israel Adesanya said he made a mistake in his submission defeat to South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis in their middleweight title showdown at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia.
While Adesanya had been ahead on the scorecards going into the championship rounds, a critical error on the ground allowed Du Plessis to secure a rear-naked choke, ending Adesanya’s hopes of regaining the title.
In hindsight, Adesanya acknowledged his mistake, stating, “I felt strong and defended against his takedowns well. I simply made a foolish mistake on the ground, and he effectively capitalized on it with the Gable grip.”
The fight, which was fueled by intense pre-fight tension relating to African heritage, showcased a closely contested battle between the two fighters.
Adesanya, striving to prove his worth, inflicted early damage and demonstrated his renowned striking abilities, keeping Du Plessis on the defensive for much of the first three rounds. However, Du Plessis’ persistence and wrestling skills ultimately prevailed, as he managed to bring Adesanya down in the second round and gradually wear down the former champion.
In the crucial fourth round, a precise left hook from Du Plessis shifted the momentum. Struggling to regain control, Adesanya was taken down and swiftly caught in a rear-naked choke, leading to his submission.
Despite the loss, Adesanya remained gracious, acknowledging his opponent’s victory and expressing pride in his performance.
“I’m disappointed in myself, but at the same time, I’m proud. He was simply better on the night, and I respect that,” he commented.
Following this defeat, the 35-year-old Adesanya is contemplating his future in a division he once ruled. Asked about his next steps, he remarked, “I didn’t anticipate this outcome. I’m 35.”
For Du Plessis, this triumph signifies a successful first title defence and reinforces his status as the undisputed middleweight champion.
He addressed the pre-fight tensions and extended respect to ‘The Last Stylebender’, stating, “Africa would have triumphed regardless tonight. I have the utmost respect for him, warrior to warrior. I regret any implication that I disrespected his African heritage; that was never my intent.
“(He’s) one of the—if not the—greatest strikers in this division. The takedown was critical. It’s challenging to keep opponents down in this division, but he’s the master of getting back up.”
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