UFC
Who could Adesanya face next after losing his middleweight title to Strickland?
‘The Last Stylebender’ lost to Strickland in one of the most unexpected outcomes in UFC history. Who should he fight now?
If in world sports, anything is possible, in mixed martial arts contests, that is more than a proven assessment.
UFC 293 was probably one of the best examples of that, as Sean Strickland pulled off one of the biggest upsets in UFC history and probably in MMA too.
Adesanya was a massive favorite going into the fight, especially after his impressive knockout win over his bête noire, Alex Pereira, in April.
The Last Stylebender was supposed to have a clear advantage if both men decided to make it a stand-up battle, while if the bout went to the ground, it would be the Anaheim native the one having the edge, although Adesanya is also known to have good takedown defense.
However, and against all odds, Adesanya was outpointed by his opponent during five rounds, with the favorite looking less active and dynamic than in his previous bouts.
With Strickland becoming the middleweight champion, now many wonder what’s next for the former king.
What’s next for Israel Adesanya?
Right after the fight, the UFC president Dana White was asked about a rematch between both fighters. White admitted that would be an interesting option, especially for Adesanya, who will be interested in avenging his loss and taking the belt back from his rival.
In terms of money, it might not be the most attractive fight, as if both men happen to meet again inside the octagon, Adesanya will likely be the favorite again and if he wins it won’t be a big surprise.
Another interesting possibility would be Dricus du Plessis. The South African fighter has proven to be a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division and his goal is to become the middleweight champion.
Du Plessis was also an underdog in his last fight against Robert Whittaker, but he managed to get the most important win of his career via TKO.
The third name for Adesanya could be Jan Blachowicz, the first man to defeat Izzy, although that happened in the light heavyweight division.
The Polish fighter, who lost to Alex Pereira in his last fight, would welcome a second match with the charismatic Adesanya. Both men have tasted defeat in their last performances, so a clash at lightweight would make sense.