UFC305: Dricus beats Adesanya to stay middleweight champion

Dricus du Plessis completed the South African takeover of Perth as he retained his Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight title in devastating fashion at UFC 305 at the sold-out RAC Arena on Sunday.

Du Plessis submitted Nigeria’s former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya with a rear naked choke in the fourth round to stamp his authority on the division.

It was a see-saw battle in the first three rounds as both men stood up and traded punches and kicks.

Tap out

But ultimately it was Du Plessis’ wrestling prowess that put an end to the contest. A series of punches rocked the Nigerian and Du Plessis was quick to pounce, taking him to the ground with precision.

He then locked in the rear naked choke and Adesanya had no choice but to tap out and end the contest.

The victory could now see Du Plessis’ next title defense taking place in South Africa after UFC president Dana White said a victory would definitely bring the UFC to South Africa.

Earlier on the weekend, the world champion Springboks beat Australia 30-12 in their Rugby Championship match, also played in Perth.

It was a second win by the Boks in the country in a week, after they also won the first meeting between the teams, in Brisbane, the week before.

More to follow…