Israel Adesanya has demonstrated his dominance in the middleweight division through victories against many powerful opponents. Even though UFC initially had doubts about setting Sean Strickland for his upcoming title fight, it’s now confirmed.
A potential bout with Dricus Du Plessis seemed possible due to their verbal sparring, the situation changed when Strickland emerged as a contender. Interestingly, Paul Craig is now asserting that he, not Strickland, has the potential to dethrone Adesanya as the middleweight champion.
Paul Craig believes he’ll be the one to dethrone Israel Adesanya
Craig, in a recent appearance on the Schmo Podcast, talked about many aspects of UFC including the title reign of Izzy. According to the number 13-ranked middleweight fighter, Tarzan doesn’t stand a chance to beat Adesanya.
“No, not a chance. Sean Strickland fights with his lands [low]. Izzy will capitalize on that and pick him apart. Pick, poke, and he’ll make him look like an average fighter.” Paul said.
The Scottish fighter, possessing a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, was questioned about potential opponents who could defeat Adesanya if not Strickland. Drawing from his experience as the former BAMMA World Light Heavyweight Champion, he emphasized that defeating a skilled striker like Adesanya wouldn’t be achievable for just any fighter.
“So who do I think is going to be the guy to take the belt off him? I think it’s going to be me.”
Elaborating on his approach to defeating Israel, the 35-year-old fighter asserted that he is the sole contender in the middleweight division capable of dethroning Adesanya. Bearjew also stated that his strategy involves taking Adesanya down, disrupting his game plan, and eventually submitting him.
Israel Adesanya on his upcoming fight against Sean Strickland…
“I never underestimate ANYONE…
I was even thinking about Bisping vs Rockhold… that’s a possible reality, my job is to make sure it’s not a part of this reality.”Via: @freestylebender @stylebender #MMATwitter… pic.twitter.com/fKHVg9qCoD
— DJ MurkCity (@myrksitymma) August 14, 2023
Who will fight against Israel Adesanya in UFC 293?
The Last Stylebender is set to defend his UFC middleweight title against Strickland on September 10th, headlining UFC 293 at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena.
In his most recent bout at UFC 287, the Nigerian fighter faced his long-standing rival Alex Pereira, securing a highly anticipated victory at the Miami-Dade Arena in April to reclaim the middleweight title.
Similarly, Strickland also showcased his dominance with a significant win over Abus Magomedov at UFC Vegas 76. This victory not only justified his long-awaited title shot but also highlighted his prowess in the division.
UFC was worried about Sean Strickland embarrassing the company before booking #UFC292 headliner.
Per Israel Adesanya#UFC #MMA #MMATwitter #IsraelAdesanya pic.twitter.com/Cc4IQkooec
— MMA UNCENSORED (@MMAUNCENSORED1) August 16, 2023
Do you think Sean Strickland will be able to dethrone Israel Adesanya? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
