Israel Adesanya, the New Zealand mixed martial artist of Nigerian descent has announced his highly anticipated return to the UFC, where he will face off against his archrival Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 305, after months of speculation.
The 34-year-old former two-time middleweight champion had taken a break from mixed martial arts following a surprising defeat to Sean Strickland in Sydney last September. This hiatus came after an impressive yet demanding series of title defenses.
Adesanya‘s comeback has been the subject of much speculation, with many expecting him to headline UFC 300. However, his rival, Du Plessis, initially could not commit to the proposed date due to injuries sustained during his title victory over Strickland.
It appears that Du Plessis has now recovered, as Adesanya posted a mocked-up image on Instagram, showing himself wearing the UFC’s new golden gloves, which are reserved for fighters in title bouts.
The image included the caption: “UFC 305. Du Plessis vs Adesanya. August 17.”
Adesanya added a poetic caption: “The SUN of Africa is the same sun that lights up our planet. The SUN will set and will rise again until you walk into it. The SUN, enjoy while it shines. Darkness falls when it’s gone.”
The upcoming fight between du Plessis and Adesanya is expected to be intense. The pair have a history of exchanging heated words, with Du Plessis claiming he would be a “true African champion” who lives, breathes, and trains in Africa.
This contrasts with Adesanya, born in Nigeria but moved to New Zealand. The announcement did not come as a complete surprise to UFC fans.
Recently, UFC CEO Dana White inadvertently hinted at the matchup during a video filmed in his office. Adesanya’s name was visible on the wall for UFC 305, leading many to anticipate this return fight against Du Plessis.
