The ultimate showdown between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis is all set. It will settle their dispute and put an end to the ‘Real African’ discussion once and for all. With the fight date drawing near, they’re going all out with their training, and the intense montages popping up on social media are adding even more fuel to the fire.
It’s been about a year since Dricus Du Plessis stirred up some controversy by casting doubt on whether UFC championship belts ever find their way to Africa. Needless to say, these words didn’t go down well with the former two-time UFC middleweight champion. The ongoing feud between Adesanya and Du Plessis has got fans buzzed for an epic showdown between the two fighters.
Recently, ‘The Last Stylebender’ shared a one-minute-long video of his intense sparring session on X again. The footage showcased the MMA fighter sporting protective gear and going head-to-head with his training partners in a high-octane display of striking, grappling, and takedowns. The highlight of the video was Adesanya’s lightning-fast knee strikes, which were met with a swift takedown.
The former middleweight champion is renowned for his exceptional striking skills. With a background in kickboxing, he found success after making the switch to MMA. Another fighter also stands out for his impressive striking abilities and has expressed interest in training with the former middleweight king, Israel Adesanya.
Alex Pereira open to training with Israel Adesanya
Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira have been long-time adversaries in kickboxing and MMA. Pereira triumphed over Adesanya twice in kickboxing before pursuing him to the UFC and seizing his middleweight title. Adesanya eventually bested Pereira to regain his belt in 2023 but subsequently lost it to Sean Strickland at UFC 293.
Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira (via X)Pereira is currently the UFC’s 205-pound champion. He defeated Jiri Prochazka in two epic battles at UFC 295 and UFC 303. Recently, during an interview, with The MMA Hour, Pereira was asked if he would be interested in a rematch with his old foe, Adesanya.
Maybe he and the organization have the interest [to book that fight again]. I’m here. But I think it’s over. I don’t know. I’d even train with him if I had the opportunity. It’s two styles that have similar things, but many things different that could add a lot to our games. However, If I think something could happen again, I obviously wouldn’t do that.
Alex Pereira to The MMA Hour
Pereira stated that he would only consider training with Adesanya if it’s certain that they won’t fight again. He previously trained with Strickland after knocking him out. Now, it remains to be seen whether their rivalry can spark again soon or if they will settle it once and for all.
