Surprising turns and twists have had followers on the tip of their seats all through the UFC middleweight division in 2023. Because the division undergoes fixed modifications, it’s unattainable to disregard the extraordinary occasions which have unfolded in current months.
To shut out 2022, the middleweight title modified arms in a surprising upset as Brazil’s Alex Pereira, recognized for his kickboxing abilities, delivered a outstanding knockout victory over his long-standing rival, Israel Adesanya. Nonetheless, Adesanya sought redemption and achieved it in April at UFC 287 with a brutal second-round knockout of Pereira, sending his opponent to the sunshine heavyweight division.
Whereas the extreme rivalry between Adesanya and Pereira commanded consideration, different contenders had been additionally vying for his or her shot on the title. Amongst them was South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis, who seized each alternative to showcase his abilities and resilience. In March, Du Plessis stopped Derek Brunson, a longtime top-10 contender, with strikes. This win prolonged his UFC profitable streak to 5 and his total profitable streak to seven, a powerful achievement that arguably warranted a title shot. Nonetheless, Du Plessis needed to overcome a formidable impediment in former champion Robert Whittaker.
Learn extra: Yair Rodriguez Reacts after shedding to Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 290
In an surprising flip of occasions, Du Plessis surprised the world by defeating “The Reaper” through second-round TKO at UFC 290, staking his declare to a championship likelihood later within the 12 months. Throughout Du Plessis’ post-fight interview, Adesanya entered the octagon, resulting in an intense staredown and a controversial trade of phrases. Adesanya’s use of racially offensive language left the group puzzled and unsure concerning the champion’s uncharacteristic habits.
Famend fighter and analyst Chael Sonnen interpreted Adesanya’s actions as a mirrored image of his unwavering drive as a champion. Sonnen emphasised that Adesanya’s outburst was not fueled by cash or fame however by his aggressive spirit and thirst for challenges. Sonnen drew comparisons between Adesanya and different notable UFC stars, together with the Diaz brothers, Conor McGregor, and Jon Jones, highlighting the distinctive affect Adesanya holds throughout the division.
Learn extra: Coach anticipates Alexander Volkanovski to “ragdoll” Yair Rodriguez at UFC 290.
Since reclaiming the title, Adesanya has expressed his want to face Du Plessis as a substitute of pursuing a trilogy combat with Whittaker, whom he has already defeated twice. UFC rumors counsel that the extremely anticipated showdown between Adesanya and Du Plessis will happen at UFC 293 on September tenth in Sydney, Australia. Relating to the exact date of the championship combat, UFC President Dana White has been ambiguous.
Sonnen additional emphasised Adesanya’s willingness to tackle formidable opponents, citing his earlier callouts of Yoel Romero and now Du Plessis. Regardless of not initially being ranked excessive sufficient to safe the combat, Du Plessis’ spectacular victory over Whittaker has positioned him as a deserving challenger, aligning with Adesanya’s dedication to dealing with the hardest opposition.
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