The long-awaited showdown for the UFC middleweight title between Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis, known as the “Battle for Africa,” will headline the promotion’s inaugural all-African title fight on a Sunday morning in Perth, Australia.
The clash goes beyond a mere sports competition with cultural pride, national identity, and the prestigious middleweight belt all at stake, sparking a fierce debate over who can rightfully claim the title of Africa’s true champion.
Tensions between the two fighters have been simmering for months, fueled by Du Plessis’ challenge to the legitimacy of Adesanya and other African-born UFC champions such as Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou.
Du Plessis, based in South Africa, argues that his presence on the continent gives him a stronger claim to the title of “African King.” In contrast, Adesanya, born in Lagos but raised in New Zealand since age 10, vigorously defends his African heritage, accusing Du Plessis of disrespecting the legacy of past African champions.
“Did those belts ever touch African soil?” Du Plessis once challenged, pointing out that Adesanya, Usman, and Ngannou all train abroad. This remark sparked a confrontation after Du Plessis’ win over Robert Whittaker last July.
The altercation, dubbed the “Battle for Africa” by pundits, laid the groundwork for what has become one of UFC’s most culturally significant fights.
Adesanya, a two-time middleweight champion, plays down the importance of winning back the title compared to settling the score with Du Plessis.
“Defeating Dricus is paramount over the belt,” Adesanya emphasized.
“This bout is about history, legacy, and pride.”
On the other hand, Du Plessis is determined to solidify his status as the first authentic African champion by keeping the title on the continent.
Beyond a personal rivalry, the fight holds significance for the future of mixed martial arts in Africa. UFC President Dana White has hinted at plans to expand the UFC to Africa, with South Africa and Nigeria as primary targets.
The growing MMA fan base in Africa highlights the sport’s potential on the continent. Ngannou’s foundation constructed Cameroon’s first full MMA gym in 2019, while Usman plans to establish a training center at the University of Lagos in Nigeria. Developing MMA infrastructure could be crucial for grooming the next wave of African champions.
The cultural aspect of the Adesanya vs. Du Plessis rivalry has not only captivated audiences but also served as a marketing coup for the UFC. The debate over who truly embodies Africa’s champion has brought unprecedented attention to the sport across the continent.