The stage is set for UFC 305, with tensions running high after a heated face-off between South African middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and Nigerian-born former champion Israel Adesanya during the ceremonial weigh-in.
The two fighters came face-to-face in a charged encounter that saw Adesanya storm off the stage at the pre-fight press conference, heightening anticipation for their Saturday night showdown in Perth, Australia.
The UFC 305 card is packed with excitement, featuring other key fighters like Tai Tuivasa, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, Kai Kara-France, Steve Erceg, Mateusz Damrot, and Dan Hooker, all of whom also faced off after the intense pre-fight press conference.
The highly anticipated all-African title fight between du Plessis and Adesanya marks the first-ever all-African title bout in UFC history.
The rivalry between these two fighters has been brewing since last year, and their upcoming clash is expected to be the highlight of the event.
The tension between du Plessis and Adesanya has only intensified since their July face-off, with du Plessis holding onto his title after defeating Robert Whittaker and Adesanya eager to reclaim his position at the top.
Beyond the octagon, this fight carries a deeper cultural significance, as both fighters have stoked debates about African identity in the UFC.
As the current titleholder, du Plessis enters the fight with a slight advantage, but Adesanya’s experience and determination make him a formidable opponent.
The outcome of this bout could significantly impact the future of mixed martial arts in Africa and reshape the sport’s landscape.