Prepare for an unforgettable night of action as UFC 305: Du Plessis vs. Adesanya, lands in Perth, Australia, this Saturday, bringing with it a lineup that promises to deliver non-stop excitement and drama.
Headlined by a highly anticipated middleweight championship grudge match between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya, this card is packed with critical matchups that will shake up the UFC rankings and leave fans buzzing long after the final bell.
Here's a fight-by-fight preview, complete with bold predictions for how these thrilling contests might unfold.
Main Event: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya
The middleweight title is on the line as Dricus Du Plessis defends his belt against the former two-time champion, Israel Adesanya. Du Plessis has been on a tear, undefeated in his UFC run and now looking to solidify his reign. But Adesanya, known for his ability to bounce back, is determined to reclaim his throne.
Adesanya, driven by the sting of his last defeat, will come out aggressive, looking to put Du Plessis on the back foot early. Expect a technical masterclass from "The Last Stylebender" as he looks to reclaim his title, possibly ending the fight via TKO in the championship rounds.
Kai Kara-France vs. Steve Erceg
In the co-main event, veteran Kai Kara-France takes on rising star Steve Erceg in a flyweight showdown that could have title implications. Kara-France, hungry for redemption after a tough loss, faces the hometown favorite Erceg, who has quickly risen through the ranks.
This fight could go either way, but Erceg’s momentum and the support of the Perth crowd might give him the edge. Look for Erceg to secure a close decision victory after a hard-fought battle.
Mateusz Gamrot vs. Dan Hooker
Lightweight contenders Mateusz Gamrot and Dan Hooker clash in what promises to be a gritty, all-out war. Both fighters are known for their resilience and will be looking to make a statement in the ultra-competitive 155-pound division.
Gamrot’s grappling and relentless pressure could prove too much for Hooker, who might struggle to keep the fight standing. Expect Gamrot to grind out a decision win, solidifying his place among the division's elite.
Tai Tuivasa vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik
Heavyweights Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik are set to bring the thunder in what could be the most explosive fight of the night. With both fighters known for their knockout power, don’t blink during this one.
This fight won't last long. Tuivasa, eager to end his losing streak, will come out swinging, but Rozenstruik’s precision striking could see him land the decisive blow, earning a knockout victory within the first two rounds.
Li Jingliang vs. Carlos Prates
Kicking off the main card, seasoned veteran Li Jingliang takes on the surging newcomer Carlos Prates. Li is returning after a lengthy absence and will need to shake off any ring rust quickly against the dangerous Prates.
Prates is riding a wave of momentum, and his aggression might overwhelm Li, who could struggle to find his rhythm after a long layoff. Look for Prates to earn a stoppage victory and continue his rapid ascent in the welterweight division.
Preliminary Card Highlights
Junior Tafa vs. Valter Walker: Expect a brawl between these two heavyweights, with Tafa likely to secure a knockout in the second round.
Casey O’Neill vs. Luana Santos: O’Neill, fighting on home soil, will be eager to bounce back. A dominant decision win could be in the cards for her.
Stewart Nicoll vs. Jesus Aguilar: Nicoll’s undefeated streak is on the line, but Aguilar’s experience in the UFC might see him edge out a decision win in this intriguing flyweight matchup.
Don’t miss UFC 305: Du Plessis vs. Adesanya, live from RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia, on August 17, 2024. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card kicking off live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. This is one event you won’t want to miss!