UFC Africa ambition: Is South Africa the next UFC battleground?

Dricus Du Plessis’ Win Fuels UFC Africa Ambition

Dana White’s revelation of a potential UFC Africa, following the significant triumph of Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 297, has ignited discussions and debates across the UFC fanbase. Du Plessis, hailing from South Africa, emerged victorious against Sean Strickland, securing his position as the first South African UFC champion.

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This victory seemed to be the catalyst White needed, as he actively discussed the prospects of hosting a UFC event in Africa, with a particular focus on South Africa.

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“Absolutely, positively, can be the guy… maybe we start looking at South Africa and start looking at arenas and possibly do a fight event there this year,” White confidently stated during the UFC 297 post-fight press conference.

Fan Reactions Amidst Controversy

While the notion of UFC Africa has generated excitement, it has also sparked criticism, particularly regarding the timing of White’s intensified interest. Critics argue that the UFC Africa Ambition comes late, considering the previous reign of African champions like Israel Adesanya, Kamaru Usman, and Francis Ngannou.

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The fanbase is polarized, with some accusing White of racial insensitivity on platforms such as X, while others offer defenses, pointing to logistical challenges as potential reasons for the delay.

Dricus Du Plessis: The Cornerstone of UFC Africa

Currently, Dricus Du Plessis stands as the lone African UFC champion, embodying the renewed vigor for the UFC Africa Ambition. His aspirations to defend his title, coupled with his interest in bringing UFC to his home country, resonate with White’s vision.

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Although specifics about the event’s date and venue are not yet confirmed, the prospect of realizing the UFC Africa Ambition in 2024 remains a focal point of anticipation and scrutiny within the UFC community.

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In essence, the UFC Africa Ambition, reignited by Dricus Du Plessis’ landmark victory, presents a narrative filled with anticipation and controversy. As Dana White addresses the logistical and fan-based challenges, the prospect of UFC making its mark on African soil remains an eagerly awaited chapter in the sport’s history.

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