Dricus du Plessis will lose UFC 305 title fight vs Israel Adesanya – bookies

Dricus du Plessis will lose UFC 305 title fight vs Israel Adesanya – bookies

South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis will lose his middleweight title against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 in Perth, if bookmakers are to be believed.

As reported by The South African website, Du Plessis will put his belt on the line against Nigeria-born Adesanya on Saturday, 17 August at the RAC Arena.

Adesanya will be 35 come fight night, while Pretoria-born Du Plessis will be 30.

Dricus du Plessis claimed the belt in Canada in January

Adesanya lost his middleweight title to Sean Strickland in September 2023 at UFC 293 in Sydney, Australia, only for Du Plessis to beat Strickland – and claim the belt – at UFC 297 in January this year.

Du Plessis hasn’t defended his title since that unanimous decision went his way in Toronto, Canada.

Leading South African bookmakers Hollywoodbets are backing Adesanya to reclaim his title.

Adesanya has been installed as favourite at 69/100, with Du Plessis on offer at 21/20.

Meanwhile, as reported by The South African website, Du Plessis and Adesanya will throw hands on the same day that the Wallabies host the Springboks in a Rugby Championship clash, also in Perth.

That clash at the Optus Stadium will kick off at 19:55 local time (11:55 SA time).

The Du Plessis vs Adesanya fight will be the main event on the UFC 305 card and will take place later in the afternoon (SA time).

Conservatively, there a 100% chance the Springboks will be in attendance to support Du Plessis in his title defence.

Whatever you do, clear your schedule for that day!

EARLY PREDICTIONS:

Springboks to beat the Wallabies by 11 points

Dricus du Plessis to beat Israel Adesanya and retain his middleweight title