Dricus du Plessis takes four-word dig at Israel Adesanya despite burying hatchet at UFC 305

Dricus du Plessis playfully jabbed Israel Adesanya in a recent social media post. The African fighters were embroiled in a fierce competitive rivalry heading into their UFC 305 clash due to differences of opinion about the definition of an 'African champion'.

While most experts predicted Adesanya to emerge victorious, du Plessis pulled off a fourth-round submission win to secure the first defense of his UFC middleweight title. Following the win, 'Stillknocks' apologized to Adesanya for his remarks and acknowledged 'The Last Stylebender's' contribution to the sport.

The duo were also seen having a heartwarming conversation and exchanging gifts backstage before parting ways. A day after the win, du Plessis posted his picture with the UFC championship belts and playfully weaved Adesanya's nickname in the caption. He wrote:

"Well, that was Izzy [Easy]. #AndStill #AfricaTime."

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Dricus du Plessis reveals what he said to Israel Adesanya after the fight, sheds light on the nature of their relationship

During the pre-fight press conference, Israel Adesanya was in tears during a verbal altercation with Dricus du Plessis. After defeating Adesanya at UFC 305, du Plessis went over to him for a heartfelt conversation.

At the post-fight press conference, 'Stillknocks' revealed what he said to his adversary:

"I went over to him after the fight and said, 'If it sounded like I was saying anything bad about your parents, that was not the case. What I am saying is to you, harden up. If you want to cry about it, so be it. I would never disrespect your parents.'"

Du Plessis hailed Adesanya as a great fighter despite the bitter rivalry and doubled down on his opinions about the former two-time champion after the fight. However, he stressed that they are still not friends and shed light on the nature of their relationship:

"I am still not Israel Adesanya's [friend]... We are not friends. Because on a personal level, we do not see eye to eye. But warrior to warrior, after spending that time with him inside that octagon, and what he's achieved in the sport, it's no secret that I respect that. After spending that time in the octagon, you can't not respect that man."

Check out Dricus du Plessis' comments below (6:52):