Israel Adesanya Set To Defend Middleweight Title Against Sean Strickland at UFC 293 In Sydney

Photo: Instagram/Israel Adesanya

Israel Adesanya is set to defend his middleweight UFC title in an upcoming bout against Sean Strickland at UFC 293, as confirmed by UFC president Dana White on Tuesday.

Scheduled to take place on September 9th in Sydney, this eagerly anticipated clash will mark Adesanya's return to the octagon following his triumphant victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 287 in April, where he recaptured the middleweight championship belt with a sensational knockout.

This match holds special significance for Adesanya, given that it not only marks his 11th consecutive appearance with a UFC championship at stake but also provides a chance to avenge a previous loss.

Photo: Instagram/Israel Adesanya

In 2022, Pereira handed Adesanya a knockout defeat that resulted in him losing the belt after a successful streak of two title defenses. Strickland, ranked fifth in the middleweight contender list, earned his title shot by securing back-to-back wins against Nassourdine Imavov and Abus Magomedov.

The aftermath of this contest will have implications not just for Adesanya, but also for Pereira, who clinched victory against Jan Blachowicz in the light heavyweight division at UFC 291 in July.

Expressing his intentions, Pereira has his eyes set on the light heavyweight belt held by Jamahal Hill, with plans to later drop down to middleweight for a potential trilogy fight with Adesanya, contingent upon Adesanya's successful title defense.

UFC 293's co-main event will showcase a clash of top-10 heavyweights, with Tai Tuivasa facing off against Alexander Volkov. The event's lineup also includes exciting matchups such as Manel Kape versus Kai Kara-France, as well as Austen Lane versus Justin Tafa, making it a promising evening for MMA fans worldwide.

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Source: Yahoo Sports 

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