Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya had one of the most heated build-ups to their UFC 305 clash. After all, the Kiwi-Nigerian felt his African-ness attacked by the South African, and their animosity was clear in the build-up of the fight. In the end, ‘DDP’ managed to retain his middleweight title after submitting ‘Izzy’ via a rear naked choke hold. But, most importantly, the two men were able to settle their differences and gave each other all the respect in the world after their fight, despite their enmity for each other before it.

Not only did he gift Adesanya a jacket backstage after the fight but also went up to the Yoruba’s parents along with his girlfriend, Vasti Spiller. The champ hugged ‘Izzy’s parents and apologized to them for any offense he may have caused them, going on to thank them “for raising a warrior,” hoping they would “enjoy the whole time here.” This, of course, is one of the most beautiful things about our sport, but Du Plessis went a step further and showed he was a champ in the truest sense of the word.

‘Izzy’s parents, too, received the South African cordially, reciprocating ‘DDP’s warmth and embrace. In the background of the same video showing this heart-warming exchange, Adesanya could be seen shaking hands and speaking with Du Plessis’ coach, Morne Visser, doubtlessly paying his respects. With UFC 305 done and dusted, there is only one question on most people’s minds.

Who’s next for Dricus Du Plessis after the UFC 305 victory?

As far as who should be Du Plessis’ next fight, former champion Sean Strickland undoubtedly has the clearest claim. After all, ‘Tarzan’ dropped his middleweight title to the South African in their fantastic UFC 297 clash in January this year.

While ‘DDP’ walked away with a split decision at the end of their five-round war in Canada, many, including UFC CEO Dana White, are of the opinion that Strickland should have won the decision. Given the controversial nature of their fight, there were widespread calls for a rematch. Even Du Plessis himself has reportedly told ‘Tarzan’s coach that he thinks the former champ deserves a rematch.

With Adesanya out of the way, it seems that the path for Du Plessis-Strickland 2 is clear. However, there is also the resurgent Robert Whittaker in the picture, but with him set to face Khamzat Chimaev, this UFC 308 could well turn out to be a title eliminator with the winner the next in line for the title. Or the UFC could decide to have the winner of Whittaker-Chimaev fight Strickland for the title shot.

Who do you think Dricus Du Plessis should fight next? Let us know in the comments below.