By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
Newsunplug KenyaNewsunplug KenyaNewsunplug Kenya
  • News
    • Metro
    • Politics
    • Business
  • Entertainment
  • Lifestyle
  • Sports
  • Tech
  • Spotify
Reading: Adesanya loses against Du Plessis to retain his middleweight belt in the UFC
Share
Notification Show More
Font ResizerAa
Newsunplug KenyaNewsunplug Kenya
Font ResizerAa
  • News
  • Entertainment
  • Lifestyle
  • Sports
  • Tech
  • Spotify
  • News
    • Metro
    • Politics
    • Business
  • Entertainment
  • Lifestyle
  • Sports
  • Tech
  • Spotify
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
© 2022 Foxiz News Network. Ruby Design Company. All Rights Reserved.
Newsunplug Kenya > Blog > Sports > Adesanya loses against Du Plessis to retain his middleweight belt in the UFC
Sports

Adesanya loses against Du Plessis to retain his middleweight belt in the UFC

Ivy Irungu
Last updated: August 18, 2024 7:39 am
Ivy Irungu
11 months ago
Share
SHARE

South African Dricus du Plessis successfully defended his UFC middleweight title on Sunday with a fourth-round submission victory over his fierce rival, Israel Adesanya, in a high-stakes showdown at Perth Arena.

In the main event of UFC 305, du Plessis seemed to be struggling against the two-time former champion before executing a stunning takedown that secured his 185-pound belt.

With this victory, du Plessis (22-2) extends his winning streak to 10 consecutive fights, having initially claimed the title in January after defeating the controversial Sean Strickland.

“I came in here to die for this belt,” du Plessis said. “I came here to take it home. Here I am, still the champion.”

At a sold-out 15,000 Perth Arena, Adesanya (24-4) enjoyed significant crowd support and seemed to have an edge for much of the fight until he was helpless against du Plessis’ rear-naked choke.

“I’m disappointed, but at the same time I’m proud because this is the best I’ve felt and looked,” said the Nigeria-born New Zealander, who made his return after a shock defeat to Strickland in September last year.
“I just had the better man on the night and I’ll give him respect for that.”

READ MORE  You’ll know next year – Raul speaks on replacing Ancelotti as Real Madrid coach

Dricus du Plessis made a dramatic entrance into the Octagon, accompanied by South Africa’s rugby captain Siya Kolisi and second-rower Eben Etzebeth, with the national anthem of South Africa resonating throughout the venue.

The bout had been highly anticipated, following a heated exchange of words between the fighters leading up to the event. Originally scheduled to take place in Sydney last year, the fight was postponed due to du Plessis being sidelined by injury.

The match began cautiously in a tense atmosphere, with the taller Adesanya, a former kickboxer, using his longer reach to keep du Plessis at bay. Adesanya relied on counterstriking, deploying his signature kicks to great effect, leaving du Plessis with a bloodied forehead.

Late in the first round, du Plessis landed a powerful left-hand punch, gaining momentum that carried into the next round. He executed a significant takedown, securing control on Adesanya’s back. However, he was unable to lock in a submission, as Adesanya fought back with his grappling skills.

By the fourth round, Adesanya’s strategy of wearing down du Plessis seemed to be paying off as he landed more precise punches. But du Plessis found a burst of energy and delivered a rattling blow that wobbled Adesanya, ultimately leading to his victory.

READ MORE  State to Clear Head Coach Firat 's salaries

In another highlight of the main card, Kai Kara-France shocked the crowd by knocking out Australian Steve Erceg in the first round of their flyweight bout. The New Zealander was relentless, twice dropping Erceg with a barrage of powerful punches, securing a decisive win.

“I knew Steve was going to be crafty and smart, so I had to set it up… and be smart and that’s when I went for the finish,” said the 31-year-old Kara-France.
In the heavyweight bout, Jairzinho Rozenstruik of Suriname beat Australian Tai Tuivasa by split decision.

#EPL: Arteta to become highest-paid manager in Arsenal history
Lord Mayor hosts Celtic FC players ahead of Super Cup game with Cork City
According to a US travel agency, the World Cup visa window is closing for some travelers.
Jailed Kenya 7s ex-star Alex Olaba appeals six-year sentence
McKinstry’s poignant farewell statement evokes memories of Gor Mahia
Share This Article
Facebook Email Print
Previous Article MoH: One patient is isolated and five additional cases of mpox have been found in Kenya.
Next Article A murder suspect was hospitalized in Kisumu following a mob thrashing.
about us

We influence 20 million users and is the number one business and technology news network on the planet.

Recent Posts

  • Cameroon President Paul Biya, 92, declares presidential ambition yet again; to contest for the 8th term
  • Club World Cup 2025: Why we beat PSG 3-0 – Chelsea manager, Maresca
  • Man beaten by locals, car torched over livestock theft in Uasin Gishu
  • Former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari is dead
  • Breaking Done Deal: Formal West Brom standout Remains Unsigned And Has Decided To Stayed

Recent Comments

No comments to show.
Newsunplug KenyaNewsunplug Kenya
© Newsunplug Kenya. All Rights Reserved.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?