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UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is taking a cautious approach to his return to the octagon, emphasizing the importance of not rushing back from injuries.
Despite his recovery process, du Plessis has his sights set on facing former champion Israel Adesanya in his first title defense. Challenging Adesanya to fulfill his promise of dragging him around in South Africa, du Plessis made it clear that he's ready for the matchup.
Du Plessis had previously declined a grudge match with Adesanya at UFC 300 due to injuries sustained in his title-winning performance against Sean Strickland. However, he expressed his team's efforts to book the fight, especially after facing off with Adesanya last year following a victory over ex-champ Robert Whittaker at UFC 290.
"We are trying," du Plessis stated regarding the title matchup. "We are talking, definitely. That’s what the people want to see, and that’s what I want to do. I want to fight the best guys. This is an entertaining sport."
Despite the physical toll of his advancement in the 185-pound division, du Plessis aims to fight twice more this year, ideally. He highlighted the growing popularity of MMA in South Africa and expressed his desire for an all-Africa title showdown with Adesanya, citing the significant impact it would have on the country.