Dricus Du Plessis vs Israel Adesanya — Fight recap

Dricus Du Plessis defeated Israel Adesanya by submission in the fourth round at 3:38, capturing the middleweight title on August 17, 2024. Du Plessis landed 90 of 197 significant strikes (45%) while successfully executing 4 of 9 takedown attempts (44%), accumulating 3:39 of control time that proved decisive in the later rounds.

Adesanya, despite a slight striking volume advantage with 97 of 203 significant strikes (47%), failed to secure his lone takedown attempt and managed virtually no control time, unable to establish his typical distance and counter-striking rhythm against Du Plessis's relentless grappling pressure. The South African's wrestling-heavy approach systematized Adesanya's defense, ultimately leading to the submission finish that ended the champion's reign and positioned Du Plessis as the division's new titleholder.