Charles Esther
South African sports fans are gearing up for a thrilling weekend as the Springboks take on Australia in the Rugby Championship opener and UFC champion Dricus du Plessis defends his title.
Du Plessis Targets Third UFC Title Defence
Undefeated since October 2018, Du Plessis (23-2) will attempt to hand Khamzat Chimaev his first professional loss in the Octagon.
The fight marks Du Plessis’ third defence of the UFC middleweight championship.
Early Morning Fight for South African Fans
Due to time zone differences, the UFC 319 main card is set to begin around 04:00 SA time on Sunday morning.
Exact timing will depend on the duration of the preliminary bouts leading up to Du Plessis’ showdown with Chimaev.
Rugby and Fight Night for South African Viewers
With the Springboks’ match against Australia kicking off at 17:10 at Ellis Park, fans may need to pace themselves for a day of sport that ends in the early hours.
Many are expected to host braais and viewing parties to enjoy both events.
All Blacks and Argentina Add to Rugby Feast
Later in the evening, rugby fans can catch the All Blacks taking on Argentina in Córdoba, with the match starting at 23:10 SA time.
Springboks Announce Starting XV
The Springboks will field a strong lineup featuring Siya Kolisi as captain, Manie Libbok at fly-half, and Malcolm Marx at hooker.
Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jesse Kriel, and Pieter-Steph du Toit are also in the starting XV.
UFC 319 Main Card Lineup Revealed
The Las Vegas event will also see fights including Lerone Murphy vs Aaron Pico in featherweight action, Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates in welterweight, and Jared Cannonier vs Michael Page in middleweight.
