Dricus du Plessis Retains Title Against Israel Adesanya in UFC 305 Thriller

At UFC 305 in Perth, Australia, Dricus du Plessis retained his middleweight title by submitting former champion Israel Adesanya in the fourth round. This marks Adesanya's first submission loss in his professional career. Du Plessis, now 21-2, remains unbeaten in the UFC, solidifying his dominance in the division.

Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis successfully defended his title at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia, by submitting former champion Israel Adesanya in the fourth round. The fight, held on Sunday, ended with Du Plessis sinking in a rear-naked choke on Adesanya three minutes and 38 seconds into the five-minute round.

Adesanya, a Nigerian-New Zealander with a record of 24 wins and four losses, faced his first submission defeat in his professional MMA career. South African Du Plessis, who remains unbeaten in the UFC, improved his record to 21 wins and two losses. Speaking after the match, Du Plessis acknowledged Adesanya's adept striking skills and emphasized the importance of securing a takedown.

Despite an earlier attempt to choke Adesanya in the second round, which was thwarted by a series of strikes from the challenger, Du Plessis ultimately achieved his goal. Reflecting on the intense bout, Du Plessis expressed respect for Adesanya and hinted at the latter's potential retirement. However, Adesanya remained resolute, vowing to continue his MMA career.

(With inputs from agencies.)