Issue 208

August 2024

Here’s the second Dricus Du Plessis tightened his grip on the UFC middleweight crown with a career-defining choke that stole Adesanya’s air supply. This marked the first time in Adesanya's illustrious career that he was submitted, a moment that shocked fans and solidified Du Plessis' reign as champion. The Octagon was a battlefield of strategy and resilience as both fighters traded blows and takedowns in a war of attrition. Adesanya, always the precision striker, seemed to be gaining serious momentum in the third round, landing body shots that visibly slowed the South African. But Du Plessis, driven by sheer determination, weathered the storm and delivered a crushing left hook that staggered the former champion. The pivotal moment came when Du Plessis, after a relentless flurry, secured a takedown and quickly transitioned to Adesanya's back. With 3:38 left in the fourth round, he locked in a rear-naked choke that forced the tap, marking a stunning victory for ‘Stillknocks.’

Post-fight, an emotional Du Plessis addressed the heated pre-fight exchanges between the two, saying, "I'm sorry if I disrespected his African heritage. Africa won tonight, but South Africa was the victor."

The loss was a significant setback for Adesanya, but he vowed to return stronger. "I'm not f---ing leaving," he declared, promising that his journey in the UFC is far from over. This clash was not just a fight for the title but a battle of identity and pride, with both men leaving everything in the Octagon. The story of UFC 305 won’t be about what was said—it’ll be about the choke that silenced everyone and strangled any doubt about who the true champion is. 

Date: August 18, 2024

Location: UFC 305, RAC Arena, Perth, Australia