DRICUS DU PLESSIS RETAINS WORLD CHAMPION TITLE
South African UFC fighter Dricus du Plessis has retained his title as UFC middleweight champion.
Du Plessis beat Israel Adesanya on Sunday morning in Perth, Australia. Adesanya is the former two-time champion.
He lost by submission in the fourth round of their title fight although du Plessis seemed to be pretty vulnerable up until that stage.
Daily Maverick reports that the South African planned his counterstrike perfectly as a few overhand punches and jab combos wobbled the former two-time middleweight champion before du Plessis took him to the canvas and positioned himself on Adesanya’s back.
After he was announced as the winner of the fight and ultimately the world champion, du Plessis addressed the crowd.
“I got a few good ones, landed a few good punches. But ultimately I believe this fight was won on the feet. I’m alive right now – that’s a bonus.”
Du Plessis said he was willing to die for the belt.
“I came in here to die for this belt and I came here to take a life. Luckily tonight we didn’t have to do either thing. Here I am, and still champion, baby.”
Du Plessis was flanked by Springbok rugby captain Siya Kolisi and his teammate Eben Etzebeth on his way to the octagon.
The Springboks played against the Wallabies on Saturday, also in Perth.
Image credit: Eurosport