In a crazy Middleweight showdown, Dricus du Plessis pulled off a stunning victory over Israel Adesanya, securing a submission win in the fourth round to retain his title.
The fight began with du Plessis focusing on a heavy leg kick strategy, while Adesanya responded with sharp kicks of his own. Both fighters traded hard body shots, and by the end of the first round, du Plessis was already bleeding from his forehead, but he landed a solid left hand and kept the fight competitive.
In the second round, du Plessis took control by landing a well-timed takedown and applying relentless pressure on the ground. Although Adesanya managed to return to his feet, du Plessis kept him pressed against the cage.
Adesanya came out strong in the third round, landing a series of head and body shots, showcasing his striking. However, du Plessis remained dangerous, landing big shots of his own and even stunning Adesanya with a right hand.
After a strong start from Adesanya in the fourth, du Plessis landed a big left hook, followed by a series of powerful strikes that sent Adesanya to the canvas. Seizing the opportunity, du Plessis quickly transitioned to Adesanya's back and locked in a rear-naked choke, forcing the tap at 3:38 of the round.
The oddsmakers are always confident in Israel Adesanya.
— Verdict (@TournamentsMMA) April 5, 2023
He's lost 3 fights to Alex Pereira, but the oddsmakers still have him as a favorite heading into this weekend.#UFC287 pic.twitter.com/0MF4krsH1v
What a main event! How did you have the fight scored going into the fourth? Let us know with a comment below.