PERTH, Australia – Israel Adesanya was visibly emotional as he addressed Dricus Du Plessis during a heated exchange at the UFC 305 press conference. The upcoming title match at RAC Arena, set for Saturday, has been overshadowed by Du Plessis’ remarks claiming to be the first true African champion, a statement Adesanya has strongly contested in the past.
During the press conference, Du Plessis’ comment about Adesanya’s return to his roots struck a nerve. “On Tuesday, I’m going back to Nigeria,” Adesanya shared. “I will visit South Africa on Friday and then head back to New Zealand. I’m a global citizen and when I win this belt, I will carry it with me everywhere.”
In response, Du Plessis quipped, “Are you taking the servants with you when you’re going back?” This remark provoked an intense reaction from Adesanya. “What the f*ck are you even on about?” he shot back.
Adesanya then recounted his personal struggles, emphasizing the sacrifices made by his family. “My father and I had to wake up at 4 a.m. to clean banks while my mom studied to become a nurse,” he said. “You have no idea about my life. Do not speak about my story if you don’t know it.”
Du Plessis maintained his stance, focusing on the championship narrative. Adesanya criticized Du Plessis for not respecting Aboriginal culture during the “Welcome to Country Ceremony,” stating, “You couldn’t even respect the people of the land. I took my shoes off to connect, and you just stood there trying to mean mug me.”
As the press conference wrapped up, Adesanya was asked if he anticipated this level of confrontation. Overwhelmed with emotion, he revealed how deeply personal motivations fuel his fight. “I do this for my family and the people I love,” he said through tears. “I can cry and also fight fiercely. I remember the first time I fought here, and this Sunday, I’m going to shatter your dreams!”