The intense rivalry between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis, who both lay claim to being the true African fighter in the UFC, has reached a critical juncture following their encounter at UFC 290.
Adding fuel to the ongoing debate, Adesanya has issued a chilling warning to DDP, further escalating the tensions between them. Amidst the heated dispute, the Nigerian fighter has also opened up about his challenging childhood, providing glimpses into his past struggles.
Israel Adesanya opens up about childhood trauma
The Last Stylebender recently responded to a fan’s post, alluding to the difficulties he faced and the traumatic experiences he endured during his teenage years when he migrated from Nigeria to New Zealand.
“Israel Adesanya went from being surrounded by Nigerians his entire life to encountering racism for the first time when he was a teenager moving to New Zealand. He clearly feels way more connected with being Nigerian than he does with being a Kiwi because he was constantly harassed about looking and sounding different.” the fan tweet stated.
"Maybe he'll be a real African then" – Israel Adesanya on Dricus Du Plessis đź’€ pic.twitter.com/ACqgbGZ1wY
— calfkicker (@calfkickercom) July 12, 2023
The 33-year-old fighter acknowledged the sentiments, stating that he has been acquainted with pain throughout his entire life. Adesanya replied to the tweet by saying,” PAIN‼️ Pain is my friend. I’ve known him my whole life.”
Dricus Du Plessis receives harrowing warning from UFC Champ
Izzy, who has reaffirmed his unwavering confidence in his African heritage, dismissing the need for a DNA test, has furthermore issued a strong warning to defeat ‘Stillknocks,’ signaling his determination to emerge victorious.
“I’ve never been more motivated to kill a man. When I say that, I mean like not to end his life, but to really put a beating on someone. Not emotional anger. Just really want to take time and really put a beating on someone. I’m going to work my way to get that done in all ways, all shapes, all angles, all aspects of the fight.” Adesanya said.
Dricus Du Plessis reacts to Israel Adesanya's comments during their face-off pic.twitter.com/o0mcCJNsIm
— Best MMA Moments (@XcellentMMA) July 9, 2023
Following their intense verbal exchange after their clash at UFC 290, Adesanya displayed unwavering confidence by declaring his determination to end Plessis’ undefeated record in their anticipated future bout.
Do you anticipate a future middleweight title fight between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
