At UFC 305 in Perth, South Africa's Dricus du Plessis successfully defended his middleweight title with a fourth-round submission victory over former champion Israel Adesanya. Despite entering the fight as an underdog, Du Plessis silenced his critics and maintained his winning streak. Adesanya, who had been out of action for nearly a year, showcased strong striking and takedown defense but ultimately succumbed to a rear-naked choke. The event also featured significant bouts, including Kai Kara-France versus Steve Erceg and Dan Hooker against Mateusz Gamrot. The intense build-up to the main event saw both fighters engaging in a war of words, with du Plessis asserting his status as the first 'real' African UFC champion. Adesanya, representing New Zealand but born in Nigeria, aimed to reclaim his title but acknowledged Du Plessis as the better man on the night.