Israel Adesanya and Drix du Plessis definitely do not have Although they are best friends, “The Last Stylebender” will fight to dethrone Sean Strickland in the pay-per-view (PPV) main event of UFC 297 this weekend (Saturday, January 20, 2024) in Toronto, Ontario. I chose “Still Knox”. Canada.
Despite his serious rivalry with Adesanya, du Plessis wouldn’t be surprised to hear that the former middleweight champion has chosen him to be the new division’s kingpin once the dust settles on the fight. ESPN+-Streaming PPV shows.
“No, this guy knows how to fight. That’s natural. I don’t think that’s good or bad,” Du Plessis told Adesanya at a recent media day promoting UFC 297. (video replay here).
“As humans, even though we have differences, it’s nice to hear that someone thinks I’ll win,” he continued. “But as a fighter, I have nothing but good things to say about Adesanya the fighter.
“He’s had some bad games and he won them with running and stuff,” du Plessis concluded. “But he’s had some great matches. Some of the best fights we’ve seen. And he’s had some of the best shocking performances the UFC has ever seen.” But it’s about martial artists recognizing others. And in that case, it’s great to see someone like that know that you have what it takes.”
Adesanya and du Plessis could have faced each other in the main event of UFC 293 in September 2023, but “Stillnox” opted for a title shot to relax after his win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 290. chose to delay the challenge. As a result of that “bag-hunting” decision, they say, Strickland was given the opportunity to face Adesanya and others.
Du Plessis will now look to make up for the missed opportunity and win his first-ever UFC gold medal by defeating the man who shocked the world not long ago. A win could move du Plessis one step closer to a potential showdown with Adesanya.
Sooner or later?
MMAmania.com Live round-by-round coverage of the entire UFC 297 fight card. Here it isstarting with the initial one ESPN+ “Preliminary” matches will take place at 6:30 p.m. ET, after which balances on the undercard card will remain on ESPNN/.ESPN+ 8:00 PM ET, before PPV main card start time at 10:00 PM ET ESPN+ PPV.
For the latest and greatest UFC 297: “Strickland vs. Du Plessis” news and notes, visit our comprehensive event archive here.Updated and confirmed UFC 297 fight card and ESPN+ Click here for the lineup
