In the world of MMA, few stories are as compelling as that of a former champion seeking redemption. Once standing atop the division, their fall from grace often leaves fans yearning for a return to glory. For Israel Adesanya, that dream was tantalizingly close at UFC 305—a chance to reclaim the belt for the third time and cement his legacy as one of the greatest in the sport. But as the octagon lights dimmed and the crowd erupted, it was clear that the era of the once-great champion had come to an end, outclassed by a younger, hungrier Dricus DuPlessis who proved it was his time to rule.
Izzy, had previously held the belt twice, defeating some of the division’s toughest challengers like Rob Whittaker, Alex Periera, Paulo Costa and more. Known for his kickboxing, incredible fight IQ, and a warrior’s mentality, he was a fighter who could adapt to any style thrown at him. His first reign was characterized by a mix of knockouts and technical decisions, while his second title win was a testament to his resilience, regaining the belt in a stunning fashion against Alex Pereria.
With his career already enshrined in the annals of UFC history, he had nothing left to prove. However, true to the spirit of a champion, he longed for one last chapter—a third title that would silence any critics and establish him as an undisputed all-time great.
Izzy’s last chance at glory at UFC 305
Standing in his way at UFC 305 was Dricus DuPlessis, a rising star in the middleweight division who had quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive striking, powerful grappling, and relentless pace. At just 30 years old, DuPlessis embodied everything a modern MMA athlete could aspire to be. His youth, speed, and unbreakable will make him a nightmare for anyone in the division. Coming into the title fight, the younger challenger was riding an impressive win streak, having dismantled several top contenders with ease. His striking may not look pretty and slick but he’s got power and the will to finish a fight no matter how hard it gets.
As the fight began, Israel relied on his experience, using feints, strategic movement, and counterstriking to control the pace. In the early rounds, his tactical approach seemed to be paying off. He landed sharp combinations and defended well against Dricus’ blitzes, showcasing why he had once been the division’s kingpin.
However, as the fight progressed, it became clear that the pace was overwhelming. The champion, now 35, couldn’t quite keep up with the relentless pressure. In the championship rounds, the story of the fight became evident. The DuPlessis’ energy, athleticism, and desire to seize the moment overwhelmed the veteran. A clumsy takedown and a back take later, Dricus sunk in the RNC and forced a tap in the fourth round.
The younger, hungrier fighter stood victorious, a new era in the middleweight division dawning, as the former champion was left to reflect on a valiant but ultimately futile effort to reclaim the throne.
Kai Kara France stuns Erceg
No one gave Kara France a chance against the talented Erceg but the New Zealander proved everyone wrong as he knocked out the former title challenger in the first round. The first few minutes were a tense affair but once France found his rhythm, he unleashed a hellacious left hand that caught Erceg and put him down. From then on it was just a matter of time as Kara France pounced on a dazed Erceg and finished him off with a barrage of punches.
Hooker remains a tough out for anyone
Dan Hooker is one of the hardest fighters on the UFC roster. The Kiwi took on Matesuz Gamrot in a high-stakes bout and through three brutal rounds picked up the split-decision victory. Hooker is a tough out for almost anyone at lightweight and remains a fan favourite in the octagon. Hopefully, the UFC reward his run with a match-up against Charles Olivera.
UFC 305 is finally in the books and while it might not have been the barn burner everyone hoped it was going to be, it still gave us an all-time classic main event.
