UFC 290 results: Dricus Du Plessis gets into heated faceoff with Israel Adesanya after stopping Robert Whittaker

UFC 290 Recap: Dricus Du Plessis Engages in Intense Confrontation with Israel Adesanya Following Victory Over Robert Whittaker

Dricus Du Plessis showcased an extraordinary performance at UFC 290, securing a stunning second-round stoppage against former champion Robert Whittaker. As a result, Du Plessis has earned the opportunity to challenge middleweight king Israel Adesanya for the title.

During the fight, the South African fighter delivered a devastating straight punch that caught Whittaker off guard in the second round, staggering “The Reaper” and forcing him towards the cage. Du Plessis capitalized on this opening, relentlessly landing heavy blows to Whittaker’s head and body. Eventually, Whittaker stumbled and fell to the canvas, prompting referee Marc Goddard to step in and stop the contest.

The fight came to an end at 2:23 of the second round.

Reflecting on the victory, Du Plessis admitted, “When I dropped him, I wanted to rush in, but I’ve learned to control myself. So, I stayed composed and observed the beginning of the end. Robert is a true gentleman, a humble man, and a legend in this sport.”

However, Du Plessis’ celebration was abruptly interrupted as he found himself face to face with Adesanya, who entered the cage. The two middleweights engaged in a tense faceoff, exchanging heated words.

Adesanya directed his comments at Du Plessis, proclaiming, “I don’t need a DNA test to know where I come from. I will show you where you’re from. This will be an easy fight, easy money. I knew this moment would come.”

While no official confirmation has been made, it appears likely that Adesanya and Du Plessis will settle their rivalry at UFC 293 in September, scheduled to take place in Sydney, Australia. Du Plessis undoubtedly earned this opportunity by becoming only the second fighter, besides Adesanya, to finish Whittaker in the middleweight division.

From the onset of the fight, Du Plessis fearlessly engaged with Whittaker, willingly exchanging blows. He later executed a well-timed takedown, inflicting significant damage on Whittaker with a slicing elbow that opened a cut on his head. This compelled Whittaker to retreat momentarily and tend to the blood in his corner.

As the second round commenced, Du Plessis resumed his aggressive approach, delivering a perfectly timed straight right that snapped Whittaker’s head back. It became evident that Whittaker was in trouble, and Du Plessis swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, unleashing a combination of punches that ultimately secured the victory.

With this win, Du Plessis maintains an undefeated record of 6-0 in the UFC. His next challenge awaits in the form of a middleweight title fight against Adesanya, as these two bitter rivals seek to settle their score at 185 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC 290

More about UFC 290

• UFC 290 Fight Card
• Dricus Du Plessis UFC Profile
• Israel Adesanya UFC Profile
• Robert Whittaker UFC Profile
• UFC Official Website