10th September, 2023
In a shocking turn of events at UFC 293 in Sydney, Australia, Sean Strickland pulled off a stunning upset, dethroning the heavily favoured Israel Adesanya to claim the middleweight title.
The American fighter, aged 32, showcased relentless aggression over five rounds, outstriking the Nigerian-born New Zealander Adesanya, ultimately winning a unanimous decision.
Strickland’s title opportunity came unexpectedly after fellow top contender Dricus du Plessis suffered an injury, forcing him out of the championship bout.
“Am I dreaming? Am I going to wake up? Somebody hit me,” said an overwhelmed Strickland. “Never in a million years did I think I would be here. I don’t cry much, but I’m trying to keep [myself] together right now.”
Initially set to face Du Plessis, Adesanya, 34, had been engaged in a fiery rivalry with the South African following his victory over Robert Whittaker in July. However, with Du Plessis sidelined due to an injury, the UFC had to explore other options.
Adesanya, having already defeated prominent contenders like Jared Cannonier and Marvin Vettori, faced a determined Strickland, who held the fifth spot in the middleweight rankings.
The fight started slowly, but the dynamics shifted dramatically when Strickland dropped Adesanya with a clean right hand in the early rounds, injecting life into the contest.
Although Adesanya managed to recover and finish the first round, Strickland’s knockdown set a precedent that had often eluded Adesanya’s previous adversaries.
Adesanya gradually found his rhythm, particularly with leg kicks, in the second round. Yet, Strickland persisted as the aggressor, a role he maintained throughout the remaining rounds, skillfully avoiding most of the champion’s counterattacks.
Midway through the fight, Strickland’s corner sensed the potential for victory and urged him to push harder, emphasising that they hadn’t travelled this far to lose by decision.
Strickland continued to press forward, utilising his jab effectively, while Adesanya struggled to mount a significant offence.
As the contest concluded, Strickland raised his arms in celebration, brimming with confidence, while Adesanya appeared dejected as he returned to his corner.
When the judges declared Strickland the winner, Adesanya displayed sportsmanship by embracing the emotional American and raising his hand in victory.
This remarkable victory marked Strickland’s first UFC title in his debut championship bout, adding to his 28th win in his impressive 33-fight career.
Reflecting on his triumph, Strickland acknowledged Adesanya’s achievements, stating, “Izzy’s had how many highlight knockouts, He’s beaten the majority of my friends pretty easily. I was even doubting myself at times, but the fans in Australia motivated me.”
“But remember, this gold around my waist doesn’t mean [anything]. What matters is how you live your life, and I’m living better through you guys, for you guys, thank you.”
BBC/NAN