SUMMARY
- After winning the middleweight title, Dricus du Plessis called out Israel Adesanya as his next fight.
- Adesanya went on to confirm that he was interested in facing Dricus, who was going to be his initial opponent at UFC 293.
The former UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel Adesanya, is all set to make his return to the UFC. After losing to Sean Strickland at UFC 293 Adesanya made it clear that he was going to make a comeback after announcing a temporary hiatus. The Last Stylebender has been a reckoning force in the division and holds one of the most dominant title reigns.
Adesanya has been a focal point for the MMA community and sports media after being called out by his arch-rival Alex Periera and current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis. Although his opponent hasn’t been disclosed yet, speculation has been made for him to face Dricus on his return to the octagon. Further, it could also be the most historic event for the organization, UFC 300.
Israel Adesanya has now RELEASED footage from his boxing training in Mexico😳
Contender Izzy is loading 🔁 pic.twitter.com/DQ7yCaByMJ
— Kenny Okoye🇳🇬 (@TruthfulUfcFan) January 24, 2024
The Nigerian-born fighter was recently seen training boxing in Mexico to step up his game. This many considered would be to improve upon his last performance, where he got outboxed by former Champion Strickland. Adesnya, although known to be one of the most proficient strikers in the game, seemed to struggle with Sean’s boxing, especially his jabs, causing him to take major damage.
Israel Adesanya vows to test Dricus du Plessis on his return
Israel Adesnya went on to address Dricus du Plessis’ callout after Dricus du Plessis won his first title in the UFC. Izzy went on to confirm that he was interested in facing du Plessis, who was going to be his initial opponent at UFC 293 before pulling out due to injury. Both the UFC fighters had established a personal rivalry based on being the true African champion and were keen to step into the octagon.
Adesanya stated on his YouTube channel, “Legit I’m happy for him. I actually like his story and whatnot, but he still did what he did, and I’m still going to test that a**”. He made it clear that he intended to test the champion on his return and would be going in prepared. Moreover, Izzy also appreciates Dricus as the new champion and respects his journey and hard work.
Israel Adesanya hints at next possible opponent ahead of UFC 300
With much speculation and rumors as to who Israel Adesanya would be facing on his return, the current Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis, seems to be on top. The former Middleweight Champion has been considered one of the greatest fighters in his division and also a face for the UFC. Therefore, his return would definitely benefit the organization in terms of PPV buys and star power.
✨IS~RA~EL 🐉 ADÉSÀNYÀ‼️
This arc in my story was written long ago. Our paths are destined to cross again. Stay tuned for the next episode, thanks for watching.
We Write History ✨✍🏾 pic.twitter.com/c5EHGWBjlL— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) January 21, 2024
Adesanya made it clear that he wishes to settle his rivalry with Dricus on social media. Calling it destined between the two UFC fighters and further making history on his return. President Dana White was questioned on his return at UFC 300, to which White refused to share any input.