MMA fans have reacted to Dricus Du Plessis’ victory over Israel Adesanya by submission in the fourth round, thereby, retaining his middleweight title.
The grudge match, which had been fueled by pre-fight tensions over race and identity, culminated in a dramatic turn of events as Du Plessis secured the victory with a rear-naked choke.
Adesanya, a former two-time champion, came into the fight determined to reclaim the belt he lost to Sean Strickland last September.
Despite trailing 2-1 on the scorecards heading into the fourth round, Du Plessis turned the tide with a series of powerful hooks and jabs, followed by a decisive takedown.
Once he locked Adesanya into the choke, the Nigerian-born fighter had no choice but to submit.
Reacting to the fight, MMA fans took to social media to show emotions;
@Ben Davies wrote; “Izzy did the Max Holloway and was finished 17 seconds later”
@aqeelhaider01 wrote, “The contrast between Israel Adesanya before and after his loss to Dricus Du Plessis highlights the emotional and psychological impact of such high-profile fights. Before the fight, Adesanya was likely confident and focused, while after the loss, he might be reflecting on the challenges and adjustments needed. This shift is a common experience for athletes dealing with defeat, especially in the competitive and high-stakes environment of the UFC.”
@ninamdrama wrote. “All respect. Two great warriors! Respect is the root of Mix Martial Arts. What a scary and beautiful sport. The story continues. Also, thank God Izzy didn’t retire tonight. You trolls wouldn’t know what else to do with your time if he did. Congratulation Dricus.”
@SandhuMMA wrote, “Izzy ain’t going nowhere and the sport is better for it. Also, seeing Izzy and DDP embrace after they went to war is exactly why I love this sport. Great scenes at the end of the night to cap off what was an awesome card.”
@GodTha19491, “I love Izzy to death but this is just fucking heartbreaking. Dead ass take a break, work with Pereira. Come back better because I truthfully believe both Strickland and DDP were two of Izzys most guaranteed wins in his career and he blew both of em. Goddamn it.”
@Blessing_Andrew, “When Dricus du plessis beat Sean Strickland to win this belt, I knew he was a force to reckon with. Israel Adesanya didn’t even fight like someone that was prepared.
Izzy fall my hand but I still love you
😠Congratulations South Africa.”
@ChurchillOkafor, “Israel adesanya loosing at the championship round wasn’t a good news to wake up to. You’re already legend and a hall of famer in one of my favorite sports MMA.”
@@unclescrooch, “Drake decides the fate of yet Another great battle. Dricus Du Plessis🇿🇦 beats Israel Adesanya🇳🇬 by Submission 💯🔥 No DNA 🧬 Just RSA🇿🇦”
READ ALSO FROM SPORTING TRIBUNEÂ
Du Plessis defeats Adesanya by submission to retain middleweight title
