Israel Adesanya popularly known as the “The Last Stylebender” and Dricus du Plessis set the stage for an intense showdown at UFC 305 during a heated pre-fight press conference on Friday morning in Perth, Australia.
Israel Adesanya, a former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion, aims to make history by reclaiming the title for a third time against the current champion du Plessis.
The rivalry between the two fighters has been fueled by discussions of African heritage. Du Plessis, who trains and resides in South Africa, has proclaimed himself as the first true UFC champion from the continent. This stance has provoked Adesanya, a Nigerian native who emigrated to New Zealand with his family during his youth.
Tensions flared when Israel Adesanya was questioned about taking the championship belt back to Nigeria after the fight. Du Plessis interjected, questioning Adesanya’s background and suggesting he grew up in privilege. “Will you be taking your ‘servants’ with you?” du Plessis quipped, adding a personal sting to the exchange.
The camera then focused back on Adesanya, who appeared visibly emotional in response to du Plessis’ comments. As the two fighters prepare for their highly anticipated bout, their ongoing feud adds another layer of intrigue to the title match on Saturday night.
“He touched a subject there because I do this for my family,” he said with tears streaming down his face.
“I do this for my people I love, and I’ll fight for you forever, I swear to god.”
The 35-year-old owned his emotions and continued to give a passionate speech, despite the fact his voice kept cracking.
Adesanya added: “I am a human being. I am a man.”
“I can cry and whoop you’re a** at the same time.
“I’m going to f***ing kill your dreams, b****. I wanna f***ing kill your dream.”
Israel Adesanya then dropped his mic and stormed off the stage – but he had to return moments later for a staredown with the man who upset him.
Thankfully, the two men were able to stand inches away from one another without getting the UFC 305 main event started early.
Du Plessis mocked Adesanya as soon as he got the chance.
“Come on guys stop crying at the press conferences it’s not that serious,” he tweeted immediately after the press conference.
