The otherwise silent middleweight division lit up with a heated exchange between Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis. During the UFC 285 press conference, du Plessis challenged Adesanya‘s African heritage, casting doubt on his authenticity as an African fighter. Moreover, du Plessis boldly claimed that he was the true representative of Africa due to his roots and ongoing residence on the continent.

These comments by du Plessis caught the attention of the entire MMA community and triggered several wild reactions. Middleweight champion Israel Adesanya also responded to them by calling du Plessis out. Recently, du Plessis went on record to clarify his statement.

Dricus du Plessis revisits his earlier comments about Israel Adesanya

In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Dricus du Plessis addressed the controversy surrounding his comments on Adesanya. Du Plessis clarified that he had never claimed to be “more African” or denied Adesanya‘s African heritage.

He emphasized that his intention was simply to highlight the fact that he is the only contender born in Africa, residing and training in the continent. Du Plessis stood firm in his stance. He also reiterated that his success is deeply rooted in Africa and his daily commitment is to train in his home country.

Read More – Robert Whittaker Opens Up on “Scary Individual” Dricus du Plessis as UFC 290 Opponent Feuds With Israel Adesanya Over African Heritage

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“I didn’t say the word ‘more African’, I didn’t say they were not African. I stated facts. I am the only one in title contention ever who was born in Africa. To live in Africa, to reside in Africa, and train here every single day. That was my statement. I’m sticking with that because that is the fact.”

Du Plessis shows respect to the Middleweight champion!

Later in the same interview, du Plessis shocked the world by praising his rival, Israel Adesanya. When asked about his views on Adesanya, the Middleweight contender stated nothing but positive words for the champ.

“As a fighter, I’ve always had mad respect for him. I think he’s an incredible incredible fighter in terms of legacy of being a really really good fighter and being possibly one of the greatest middleweights to ever do it.”

Watch This Story – Who Will Israel Adesanya Face After UFC 287?

Du Plessis next steps in the octagon against Robert Whittaker at UFC 290. If he gets a win against Whittaker, he might face Adesanya for the title. How do you see this potential title fight panning out? Do let us know in the comments below.