The UFC sees Africa as a huge market with a rapidly growing audience but, despite long talking up the idea, the organisation is yet to hold an event on the continent during its 31-year history.
Du Plessis and Adesanya’s meeting in Perth this weekend will be the latest UFC card to be hosted by Australia, and it has also repeatedly visited Asia, Europe, South America and the Middle East.
Australia are hosting a rugby union match against South Africa earlier on Saturday, and the involvement of Super Sport, one of the UFC’s broadcast partners in Africa, has led to plans for crossover events.
One of the first of those will involve Springboks icons Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth, who will accompany Du Plessis to the octagon ahead of his battle with Adesanya.
In the build-up, White has said that a fight will take place in South Africa if Du Plessis wins.
“It is something Dana and the team have talked about a lot over the last year or so, and there is certainly a determination for it to happen soon,” UFC executive David Shaw said of their plans for Africa.
“We have seen our fanbase in Africa grow over the years, with South Africa and Nigeria being two of the stand-out countries.
“Adesanya is a real star – not just in Africa but on a global level.
“We’re looking forward to delivering an incredible event [in Africa] which will certainly have a significant impact on the region.”