UFC 305 is set to be one of the most anticipated events of the year, featuring a thrilling line-up of bouts that has fans on the edge of their seats. The event is scheduled for August 17, 2024, at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, marks a significant moment in the UFC calendar.
The headliner is a highly charged middleweight title bout between South Africa’s Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis and former champion Israel Adesanya, a match that has garnered massive attention due to the rivalry between the two fighters.
Du Plessis, who has been on a meteoric rise in the UFC, captured the middleweight title by defeating Sean Strickland. This victory solidified his status as a dominant force in the division. Du Plessis, known for his powerful striking and unyielding determination, now faces his toughest challenge yet in Israel Adesanya.
Adesanya, a former two-time champion, is seeking to reclaim his throne after a mixed record in his last few fights. The New Zealander, nicknamed “The Last Stylebender,” is known for his striking accuracy and versatile fighting style, making this a highly anticipated clash of titans.
The co-main event features a flyweight bout between Kai Kara-France and Steve Erceg. Kara-France, coming off two losses, is looking to re-establish himself as a top contender in the division. Erceg, an Australian fighter who had an impressive win streak before falling short against Alexandre Pantoja, will be eager to bounce back on home soil. This fight promises to be a fast-paced, technical battle, with a lot at stake for both fighters.
Another highlight of the event will be the lightweight clash between Dan “The Hangman” Hooker and Mateusz Gamrot. Hooker, a fan favourite from New Zealand, is on a two-fight winning streak and aims to continue his momentum against Gamrot, who is currently riding a three-fight winning streak. Gamrot’s grappling skills will be tested against Hooker’s striking prowess, making this a compelling match-up.
The undercard also features heavyweights Tai Tuivasa and Li Jingliang.Tuivasa, known for his knockout power and charismatic personality, will look to make a statement in his comeback fight. Li Jingliang, on the other hand, is keen to prove his worth in a competitive welterweight division.
UFC 305 brings together fighters with impressive records and skill sets. Dricus du Plessis boasts a record of 21 wins with only 2 losses, including 12 knockouts, while Israel Adesanya, with a record of 24 wins and 4 losses, has 15 wins by knockout. Kai Kara-France has 24 wins with 11 knockouts, whereas Steve Erceg has a record of 10 wins with 6 submissions, highlighting the diverse skills sets on display.
Whether it’s du Plessis attempting to defend his title for the first time, or Adesanya trying to reclaim his lost glory, the narratives at play adds an extra layer of excitement to what is sure to be an unforgettable night in Perth.
Du Plessis admittedly does not like Adesanya, and Adesanya feels the same way about “Stillknocks.” After Du Plessis defeated former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, Adesanya entered the octagon and verbally insulted Du Plessis as the South African remained calm. Considering his interaction with Adesanya after his win over Whittaker, Du Plessis was asked whether he believes that he’s in Adesanya’s head leading up to their UFC 305 grudge-match.
“If I’m in his head, I can’t tell you. He feels the energy. I can tell you that much,” Du Plessis told SHAK MMA. “I made the statement that his fire is gone, and I don’t believe that. I think the fire is still there. I just believe my fire is just, his fire is insignificant to mine.
“The passion and fire that I have in me, the passion burning is overshadowing his. That’s why I can’t even see his fire, and I can’t feel it because the fire burning inside of me is so intense,” Du Plessis continued. “Do I think I’m in his head? Maybe not, but I do know that he’s in his own head. That’s for sure.” Above all, however, Adesanya said this fight is most important for him. “At the moment what is fuelling me is pretty much just showing myself off,” Adesanya said.
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