UFC 305: Dricus du Plessis fighting for much more than his career

By Doug Mattushek
15th August 2024

When UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis steps into the octagon this weekend, there is more than just his belt on the line.

The South African superstar faces contender Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 in the RAC Arena in Perth in a highly anticipated title fight this Sunday. But for du Plessis, this one is for all the marbles.

UFC overlord Dana White has long teased a UFC event on African soil and this week he confirmed that a win for du Plessis would go a long way to making that a reality.

"You have one of these situations where, both guys, everything is on the line, especially because they dislike each other so much," White said during a press conference this week.

"And if [du Plessis] can beat Izzy and bring that belt back to South Africa, obviously we'll do an event there. And if Izzy can [regain] and win the title, it's huge for him and his legacy."

Despite being 8300km away from home in enemy territory, the South African vibes will be strong at the RAC arena. With his beloved Springboks already in town, du Plessis is set to be walked out by megastars Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth, while the rest of the Bok squad watches from the stands.

Also in attendance is Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie, who will be eager to grease the wheels of UFC Africa. Finally, du Plessis' fight shorts are clad in a unique South African livery.

The Pretoria native is all too aware of what's on the line when the cage door closes behind him.

"It's a massive goal I've had for years: I want to bring the UFC to Africa and South Africa," the 30-year-old told the press on Thursday.

"It's hard [to organise]. There are a lot of things that need to fall into place. We have the Minister of Sport from South Africa coming to watch the fight. He's coming to make sure we do whatever needs to be done to get that fight, to get the UFC in Africa and South Africa for the first time.

"But the belt is what represents all those amazing things that are so much bigger than myself. Representing my flag and my country on the biggest stage in the world."