Don’t miss the highly anticipated main event of UFC 293 as Israel Adesanya takes on Sean Strickland. Get all the details and updates on this thrilling clash between two top fighters.
| Event | UFC 293: Adesanya vs. Strickland |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday |
| Location | Sydney Olympic Park’s Qudos Bank Arena |
| Main Event | Israel Adesanya vs. Sean Strickland |
| Fight Type | Middleweight Championship |
Nigerian-born New Zealander Israel Adesanya is set to face American title challenger Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 293. Adesanya, known for his knockout power and decision wins, aims to secure a submission victory in this fight. The event marks a homecoming for Adesanya and is the first UFC fight in Sydney since 2017. If Adesanya emerges victorious, his next opponent remains uncertain. The event has also been surrounded by controversy due to Strickland’s history of sexist and misogynistic comments. The main card will feature a heavyweight bout between Tai Tuivasa and Alexander Volkov, among other exciting matchups.
UFC 293 : Adesanya vs. Strickland
Nigerian-born New Zealander Israel Adesanya is gearing up to take on American title challenger Sean Strickland in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 293 . The fight, which will be held at Sydney Olympic Park’s Qudos Bank Arena, marks a significant moment for Adesanya as he aims to add a submission victory to his already impressive fight record. Adesanya, known for his knockout power and decision wins, has yet to secure a submission win in his professional mixed martial arts career.
Adesanya expressed his desire for a submission victory, stating, ‘What do I want in my career? Submission, I definitely want a submission.’ He anticipates that Strickland will attempt to wrestle and mix up the fight, but Adesanya remains confident in his abilities.
This event is a homecoming of sorts for Adesanya, who is based in New Zealand. It also marks the first UFC fight in Sydney since 2017 and the second UFC card in Australia this year. The anticipation is high as fans eagerly await the clash between Adesanya and Strickland.
Potential Future Fights
If Adesanya emerges victorious in the bout against Strickland, there are several questions regarding his next opponent. Originally, Adesanya was set to face Dricus du Plessis after his victory over Robert Whittaker in a No. 1 contender match. However, du Plessis declined the fight, citing the need for more recovery time. This decision opened the door for Strickland to step in and earn the opportunity.
Adesanya criticized du Plessis for not seizing the chance to fight for the title, asserting, ‘He doesn’t call the shots, I do.’ The outcome of the Adesanya-Strickland fight will undoubtedly shape the future of the middleweight division.
Controversy Surrounding Strickland
Outside of the octagon, the UFC event has garnered attention in the New South Wales state legislature. Strickland’s history of sexist and misogynistic comments has come under scrutiny, prompting Premier Chris Minns to condemn the remarks. While Minns acknowledges that the comments are appalling, he emphasizes that the actions of one fighter should not tarnish the entire sport.
Heavyweights on the Main Card
In addition to the Adesanya-Strickland showdown, the main card features an exciting heavyweight bout between Sydney-born Tai Tuivasa and Russian Alexander Volkov. Tuivasa, who has faced recent setbacks, aims to reclaim victory against the experienced Volkov. The main card also includes matchups between Manel Kape and Felipe dos Santos, Justin Tafa and Austen Lane, and Tyson Pedro and Anton Turkalj.
Stay tuned for the electrifying action at UFC 293 as Adesanya and Strickland battle for supremacy in the middleweight division!
