Read about Sean Strickland’s shocking upset win over Israel Adesanya in the UFC middleweight title fight. Find out how Strickland defied the odds to claim the championship belt and what this means for the future of the division.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Sean Strickland claims upset victory over Israel Adesanya in UFC middleweight title fight. |
| Strickland becomes the new middleweight champion, surpassing Michael Bisping’s upset win in 2016. |
| Adesanya graciously accepts defeat and acknowledges Strickland’s superior performance. |
| UFC president Dana White expresses interest in a rematch between Strickland and Adesanya. |
| Strickland’s striking ability and defense were key factors in his victory. |
Sean Strickland Claims UFC Middleweight Title
In a stunning upset, Sean Strickland (28-5) emerged victorious in the UFC middleweight title fight against Israel Adesanya. The five-round decision at UFC 293 in Sydney left the mixed martial arts world in disbelief.
Strickland, a +500 underdog, defied the odds to secure the championship belt. His victory surpassed the previous record for the biggest upset in a middleweight title fight, held by Michael Bisping when he knocked out Luke Rockhold in 2016.
Unlike Bisping’s victory, Strickland’s win was even more improbable due to the convincing manner in which he dominated Adesanya over five rounds. Strickland expressed his disbelief at his own success, stating that he never imagined he would be in this position.
Adesanya, widely regarded as one of the greatest middleweights of all time, was making the first defense of his second reign as champion. Despite his loss, Adesanya showed sportsmanship and acknowledged that Strickland was the better fighter on the night.
The rematch between Strickland and Adesanya is highly anticipated, with UFC president Dana White expressing his interest in the potential fight. Strickland’s victory showcased his superior striking ability, outlanding Adesanya in total strikes and becoming the first fighter to drop him in the UFC.
Strickland’s journey to the title was unexpected, as he was not initially slated to challenge Adesanya. However, due to an injury to Dricus du Plessis, Adesanya campaigned for Strickland to take his place, a decision that ultimately backfired.
With this upset win, Strickland has solidified his position as a top middleweight contender. His plodding, upright boxing style combined with his exceptional striking defense make him a formidable opponent for any fighter in the division.
Key Points
| Key Points |
|---|
| Sean Strickland claims upset victory over Israel Adesanya in UFC middleweight title fight. |
| Strickland becomes the new middleweight champion, surpassing Michael Bisping’s upset win in 2016. |
| Adesanya graciously accepts defeat and acknowledges Strickland’s superior performance. |
| UFC president Dana White expresses interest in a rematch between Strickland and Adesanya. |
| Strickland’s striking ability and defense were key factors in his victory. |
