Adesanya vows to return after UFC defeat to Du Plessis

Following his defeat to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305, former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya expressed disappointment but promised a strong return.

In the main event at RAC Arena in Perth, South Africa’s Du Plessis submitted Adesanya in the fourth round, retaining the UFC middleweight title. Despite the loss, the Nigerian-born fighter remained resolute, vowing to continue his UFC journey.

The defeat marked Adesanya’s first losing streak in the UFC, yet he acknowledged the significance of fighting in the same arena where his career began in 2018 before reflecting on his future.

“I didn’t think this far, I didn’t manifest this,” Adesanya quipped to Daniel Cormier in his post-fight interview. “But I know everyone, you guys love me. This is where I started my UFC career, this is where I made my dream — right here in Perth.”

When asked about his next steps, Adesanya dismissed any thoughts of retirement, defiantly stating, “And I know all you motherf—ers want to see me lose, you want to see me down, but watch this: I’m not f—ing leaving!”

Although defeated by a fourth-round rear-naked choke submission, Adesanya found solace in his performance, especially after nearly a year away from the Octagon since his last fight in September 2023. He later embraced du Plessis, showing mutual respect and setting aside past tensions.

“I’m disappointed in myself, but at the same time, I’m proud because this is the best I’ve ever felt, the best I’ve ever looked,” Adesanya reflected. “He was the better man on the night, and I’ll give him respect for that.”