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Dana White on UFC’s success: “The UFC is bigger than anything I could have ever dreamed it would be. We’re just getting started.”

On promoting fights: “I don’t promote fights, I tell the truth. I tell the truth about what I see. And you decide who you want to win.”

In a masterstroke that’s sure to set the MMA world ablaze, UFC President Dana White has dialed up the stakes for the upcoming UFC 305 event. As Dricus du Plessis readies himself to lock horns with Israel Adesanya, the implications have never been more profound. Should du Plessis manage to fend off Adesanya’s challenge on August 18, White has promised to take the UFC’s next middleweight title fight to South Africa, potentially marking an unprecedented moment in the sport’s history.

The magnitude of this potential milestone cannot be overstated, especially in light of the seething rivalry between du Plessis and Adesanya. White underscored the visceral hatred between the two, suggesting that “everything is on the line.” This isn’t just about the belt—this is personal. A victory for du Plessis wouldn’t just be a triumph for him but a watershed moment for South African MMA, etching his name in the annals of UFC history.

At just 30 years old, du Plessis has already carved out a place in history as the first South African UFC champion, a title he clinched with a hard-fought split decision over Sean Strickland earlier this year. His unbeaten streak in the octagon, highlighted by decisive wins against heavyweights like Robert Whittaker, Darren Till, and Derek Brunson, speaks to his ever-growing prowess and dominance in the middleweight division.

Adesanya, however, is no novice. The 35-year-old, known to fans as “The Last Stylebender,” has a legacy that stretches across both MMA and kickboxing. Despite a recent, stunning defeat to Strickland—after du Plessis was unable to face him—Adesanya’s reputation as one of the greatest middleweights in UFC history remains unshaken. His previous 12-fight win streak in the division was only eclipsed by MMA legend Anderson Silva.

The tension between du Plessis and Adesanya has simmered for more than a year, largely fueled by du Plessis’ contentious claim to be the “true African champion.” This ongoing feud has only served to heighten the anticipation for their showdown in Perth, with White expecting a turbulent week leading up to the event.

While intense rivalries sometimes yield underwhelming fights, White is confident this won’t be one of those times. The collision of Adesanya’s storied career and du Plessis’ relentless ambition is poised to create an explosive spectacle. UFC 305 isn’t just a fight; it’s a pivotal moment that could redefine the middleweight division and cement the legacies of these two fierce competitors.

Quotes

Dana White On the UFC’s growth: “We built this thing with hard work, passion, and a little bit of attitude.”

  • On the fighters: “The fighters are what make this sport great. They’re the reason the UFC is what it is today.”
  • On criticism: “People are always going to criticize. What matters is how you handle it and move forward.”

Major Points

    • Dana White announced that a successful title defense by du Plessis could bring the UFC to South Africa for a historic event.
    • The deep-seated animosity between du Plessis and Adesanya, particularly over what defines a “true African champion,” adds fuel to their highly anticipated clash
    • The 30-year-old South African champion remains undefeated in the UFC and has solidified his status with a string of notable victories.
    • Former champion Adesanya seeks to reclaim his title and restore his legacy after a shocking loss to Strickland.
    • UFC 305 could reshape the middleweight division and set the stage for a historic moment in African MMA.

TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News