Dricus Du Plessis is out to dethrone Israel Adesanya permanently.
The incumbent two-time champion and South Africa’s brightest star have a ready-made feud in the UFC middleweight division.
While Du Plessis’ words have secured a shot in the eyes of the title holder, Du Plessis wants to communicate with his actions and make himself unmistakable. That process will be continued next weekend in Las Vegas by former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 290.
“Be careful what you wish for,” cautioned Du Plessis.
“At the end of the day, I don’t care if he hopes or wants it; I’ll win on my terms, and as I said, it’s imminent.” When I fight for the belt, I’ll face Adesanya. He says he hopes I win, which is great. I don’t require hope. I feel the hope is for those who believe that winning can happen by chance. I’m not winning by chance, nor is he. I’m winning because I work hard and am the best boxer.
“He’ll get his chance. He is capable of standing in line. I’m not calling him out; he’s calling me out. So I’ll fight him because that’s what I deserve, but he can wait in line when the time comes.
“Let’s see if he’s game,” he says. “Let’s see if Adesanya is truly available when the time comes.” In my opinion, after Whittaker, just give me around five minutes. With how I’m feeling right now, give me about five minutes and some water, and I’ll fight him that night. Let’s do it on Saturday next week.”
