By The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host its first ever all-African title fight in the early hours of Sunday, August 20, 2024, pitting South African champion Dricus du Plessis against Nigeria-born Israel Adesanya.
This highly anticipated middleweight bout has been framed as the “battle for Africa,” highlighting a cultural dispute between the fighters and showcasing the growing importance of the African market for mixed martial arts (MMA).
Cultural Clash and African Identity
The build-up to the fight has been marked by a heated debate over African identity in MMA. Adesanya, 35, who moved to New Zealand at age 10, has accused du Plessis, 30, of disrespecting the ‘African Kings’ – a title given to Adesanya, Kamaru Usman, and Francis Ngannou when they all held UFC belts simultaneously.
Du Plessis, who became South Africa’s first UFC champion in January 2024, has countered by questioning the authenticity of these fighters’ African credentials, given that they live and train overseas. “Did those belts ever go to Africa?” du Plessis provocatively asked, emphasizing his status as a champion based on the continent.
Impact on African MMA
The fight’s significance extends beyond personal rivalries, potentially shaping the future of MMA in Africa. At the Wellness Martial Arts Academy in Lagos, Nigeria, coach John Anene has witnessed a surge in fighters inspired by Adesanya and Usman.
However, he notes that while MMA is progressing in Nigeria, challenges remain, particularly in terms of facilities and comprehensive training systems.
In South Africa, du Plessis’ success has had an “unbelievable” impact on public perceptions of the sport, according to Stephan de la Rey, coach at the CIT Performance Institute in Pretoria. De la Rey reports a significant increase in youth participation and growing confidence in MMA as a viable career path.
UFC’s African Ambitions
The UFC sees Africa as a huge market with rapidly growing audience potential. Despite long-standing discussions, the organization has yet to hold an event on the continent in its 31-year history.
UFC executive David Shaw confirmed that plans for an African event are in the works, with South Africa and Nigeria identified as standout countries for fan base growth.
UFC President Dana White has stated that a fight will take place in South Africa if du Plessis wins. This commitment underscores the UFC’s recognition of Africa’s importance to the sport’s global expansion.
Cultural Significance and Marketing
The focus on du Plessis and Adesanya’s dispute over African identity is viewed by some, like coach Anene, as a savvy marketing strategy that will increase awareness of MMA in Africa.
Bokang Masunyane, a top-ranked South African strawweight who trains at du Plessis’ gym, sees the fight as a positive spotlight on African fighters.
As the MMA world turns its attention to this historic bout, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the sport’s development in Africa.
Whether Adesanya reclaims the middleweight title or du Plessis defends his championship, the fight represents a significant milestone in the UFC’s engagement with the African continent and its fighters.
A bbc.com story
