Following Dricus Du Plessis's victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, a heated exchange occurred between Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya, foreshadowing a potential title fight. During this exchange, Adesanya, the Nigerian-born middleweight champion, reportedly used a racial slur multiple times. This prompted questions directed at UFC President Dana White about the "racial undertones" of the confrontation.
White expressed confusion at the line of questioning, pushing back against the reporter's assertion that Adesanya's repeated use of the slur was problematic. He defended Adesanya's right to express himself, stating, "He’s Black … who gives a s---?" and adding, "I [couldn't] care less" about any perceived tension. White further emphasized that Adesanya "can say whatever he wants to say" in the fight business.
Du Plessis, for his part, dismissed the incident, characterizing Adesanya's behavior as childish and unbecoming of a champion. He expressed his commitment to maintaining a gentlemanly demeanor, contrasting his approach with Adesanya's. The South African fighter suggested that Adesanya's actions were likely motivated by a desire to generate hype and sell tickets.
With his victory over Whittaker, Du Plessis is now likely to face Adesanya for the championship title at UFC 293.
