MMA fighter Dricus Du Plessis isn’t worried about Israel Adesanya at the moment, instead expressing his aim to challenge new champion Sean Strickland, before facing Adesanya at a later date, despite a potential direct rematch between Adesanya and Strickland as suggested by UFC President Dana White.
Dricus Du Plessis has no immediate concerns about Israel Adesanya. This comes after the recent event where Sean Strickland defeated Adesanya at UFC 293, clinching the middleweight title. The likely match between Du Plessis and Adesanya has consequently been put on hold. As expressed in Du Plessis’ social media, his current objective is to challenge Strickland, the new titleholder.
Du Plessis stated on social media, “Myself and [Strickland] had the biggest upsets of 2023 and I am undoubtedly the No. 1 contender, so let’s settle this like men whenever, wherever”. In his statement, he affirmed his intention to confront Adesanya after the battle against Strickland but on his native soil of South Africa. Du Plessis appears to have secured a title shot following a commanding second-round TKO victory over ex-champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 290 held in Las Vegas the past July. This victory enhanced Du Plessis’ UFC record to 6-0 and overall professional standings to 20-2.
The competitive air was heightened immediately after the results were read, with Adesanya entering the cage and having a heated face-off with Du Plessis. There were initial anticipations of a brawl between the duo at UFC 293, but Du Plessis had an injury that hindered him from making a swift appearance. Thus, Strickland was given the opportunity. Du Plessis is determined to first overcome Strickland before setting a date with Adesanya.
Finally, Du Plessis had a message for Adesanya, “That being said, don’t want to beat the amateur that fought on Saturday night. I want to beat the best [Adesanya] so take some time and get your s*** together.” However, UFC President Dana White’s approval would be needed for Du Plessis’ goals to actualize. During the UFC 293 post-fight press conference, White showed interest in an immediate rematch between Strickland and Adesanya.