Israel Adesanya has established his dominance in the middleweight division by defeating many formidable opponents. Despite his success, Adesanya revealed that the UFC displayed some hesitation in arranging the fight between him and Sean Strickland.
While a potential match with Dricus Du Plessis appeared likely due to Adesanya’s ongoing verbal feud with DDP, there was an unexpected turn of events when Strickland emerged as a contender for the middleweight title
Adesanya reveals UFC’s reluctance to book Sean Strickland
In a recent interview leading up to his upcoming title defense, Adesanya mentioned that the UFC had doubts about granting Sean the opportunity this early. Nonetheless, Izzy was the one to push the UFC into scheduling the fight.
“He’s an idiot, and the UFC doesn’t want him embarrassing the company. He should really thank me for actually making him get the fight. I pushed for it and I’m glad the UFC trusted me and listened to me.” Adesanya said.
Israel Adesanya says UFC was hesitant to give Sean Strickland a title shot because their concerned he’ll embarrass the company 😭 pic.twitter.com/Mk4p3eGttx
— Cameron 🇯🇲🎒(Cena Is Back TONIGHT) (@15_sappp) August 15, 2023
The Nigerian fighter is by no means underestimating Strickland, recognizing his capabilities to defend the gold strap. Adesanya also acknowledges the potential threats Tarzan poses and is well aware of Strickland’s strengths and skills.
“I don’t take this lightly. I’m not underestimating this guy but at the same time, I’m not overestimating him. I want to make this look easy.” Adesanya added.
OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL.
Sean Strickland vs Israel Adesanya
Sydney AUS | UFC 293 | September 9 pic.twitter.com/l09Vk1GUQY— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) August 8, 2023
When is Israel Adesanya’s next fight?
Dana White’s recent confirmation revealed that Adesanya will defend his UFC middleweight title against Strickland on September 10th. This bout will headline UFC 293 at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena.
Izzy’s most recent fight was the main event of UFC 287 against his longtime rival Alex Pereira. The Last Stylebender finally secured his anticipated victory over Poatan this April at the Miami-Dade Arena.
On the other hand, Tarzan also had a dominant victory in his last fight. Strickland’s notable victory over Abus Magomedov at UFC Vegas 76 demonstrated dominance in the middleweight division and justified his long-awaited title shot opportunaity.
Israel Adesanya will defend his middleweight title against Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in Sydney, Australia, UFC announced Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/IviXAe3ivx
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) August 8, 2023
Do you think Sean Strickland will be able to surprise the world by putting an end to Israel Adesanya’s reign? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
