UFC 305: "I'm Not F***** Leaving" - Adesanya Dismisses Retirement Talks After Defeat To Du Plessis

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Israel Adesanya dismissed talks of retirement following defeat in his attempt to reclaim the UFC Middleweight crown in the main event of UFC 305 agaisnt Dricus Du Plessis on Sunday (August 18).

UFC middleweight champion Du Plessis submitted No. 2 contender Adesanya in the fourth round to retain his title in front of a sold out RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, handing the former champion a third loss in his last four fights.

In the first three rounds, the fight was close and competitive, with Adesanya's striking on display and beginning to turn the tide. But in the fourth, Du Plessis connected with punches to send Adesanya to the canvas and jumped on his back to put on the choke.

It was the first time Nigerian-New Zealander Adesanya was submitted in his professional MMA career, which stands at 24 wins and four losses. However, it was his second successive loss in the Octagon.

"I always knew if I'm in trouble fighting one of the, if not the best strikers ever in this division, I need that takedown," Du Plessis said after his first title defence since winning the belt in January.

"This man is the king of getting back up. No one can take him down and keep him there. Believe me, I do not want to get kicked by that man again," Du Plessis said, adding "Izzy, if you decide to retire tonight, thank you."

The talks of his retirement emerged after he removed his gloves following the defeat to Du Plessis. The Last Style Bender, however, said he isn't finished and will continue fighting for his family as he dished out on people who wanted to see him lose and stay down.

"I didn't think this far. I didn't manifest this. But look, I know you guys love me. This is where I started my career in the UFC. This is where I made my dream, right here in Perth" he said at the post-fight Octagon interview with Daniel Cormier.

"But look, I'm 35 years old, I'm doing the right things and I know all you motherf**kers wanna see me lose, wanna see me down, but watch this - I'm not f****ng leaving. I'm not f****ng leaving!"