Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion of the UFC, has had a significant influence on the 185-pound class. He overcame opponents thanks to his fighting IQ and remarkable accuracy, which earned him the nickname “The Last Stylebender.” After losing and then regaining the title from Alex Pereira, the key question is: who should be his next opponent?
Let’s look at some of the top contenders who could run against Adesanya and try to dethrone him.
Israel Adesanya’s Reign and Fall
Adesanya’s tenure with the UFC has been amazing. His first big test came in 2019 when he competed against Robert Whittaker for the middleweight title. Adesanya established himself as the division’s king with precise blows and unrivaled movement. He went on to defend his championship against elite competitors like Paulo Costa and Yoel Romero.
But in 2022, Alex Pereira knocked him out in the fifth round, ending his run. The MMA community was rocked by this defeat, but Adesanya’s story wasn’t over. His current goal is to return stronger than before. However, who will be the next combatant to join him in the cage?
Top Contenders
1. Robert Whittaker – The Resilient Warrior
Both of Whittaker’s encounters with Adesanya have previously ended in defeat. He has improved each time in spite of those losses, most recently defeating Marvin Vettori and Jared Cannonier. Whittaker’s experience, perseverance, and grappling skills make him a strong opponent. Would a third bout be his lucky break?
2. Jared Cannonier – The Silent Assassin
It is well known that Cannonier can knock opponents out with his strong chin. His recent triumphs against Derek Brunson and Kelvin Gastelum demonstrate that, even after losing to Adesanya in 2022, he remains a formidable opponent. If Cannonier can step up his game, he could have what it takes to defeat Adesanya.
3. Marvin Vettori – The Relentless Contender
Vettori’s continuous pressure and grappling make him a tough opponent for anyone in the category. Vettori has since won good victories and is still a strong contender for another crown, despite Adesanya’s striking holding him back in their most recent bout.
The Dark Horses
1. Alex Pereira – The Bitter Rival
Since Pereira was the one who deposed Adesanya, he is the clear choice for a rematch. Given their enmity from their kickboxing days, a rematch between these two could be one of the most thrilling in the sport’s history.
2. Paulo Costa – The Unpredictable Force
Costa is a tough opponent because of his aggressive, knockout-heavy style. Costa’s sheer power is always a threat, even if Adesanya beat him in their first fight. It may be exciting to fight Adesanya again if he can change who he is.
Conclusion: Who’s Next?
There are many competitors in the UFC middleweight class, therefore Adesanya’s return to the top will not be simple. The rivalry is intense, ranging from well-known competitors like Whittaker and Vettori to possible dark horses like Pereira and Costa. Who will be the next to take on the Last Stylebender? The next fight will undoubtedly be explosive, but only time will tell.
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