Strickland shocks Adesanya, takes UFC middleweight title.
Underdog Sean Strickland Shocks the World, Defeats Israel Adesanya to Claim UFC Middleweight Title
A thrilling battle unfolded at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday as Sean Strickland, the underdog, pulled off a stunning upset to defeat Israel Adesanya and become the new UFC middleweight champion. In an enthralling five-round fight, Strickland emerged victorious by unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards.
American fighter Strickland showcased his confidence in the closing seconds of the final round, taunting Adesanya after 25 minutes of relentless stalking, brilliant defense, and powerful boxing that forced Adesanya to fight defensively.
Adesanya, who has dominated the middleweight division for the past four years, struggled to find a way to break down Strickland’s defense. The Nigerian fighter, aged 34, was repeatedly caught by Strickland’s stiff jabs, which slowed him down throughout the fight.
“Oh my God, literally never in a million years did I think I’d be here,” exclaimed Strickland in a post-fight interview, moments after UFC president Dana White wrapped the championship belt around his waist.
Despite initially giving Strickland a hostile reception and cheering for Adesanya, who hails from neighboring New Zealand, the crowd couldn’t help but hail the new champion for his gutsy performance.
“The majority of my friends he’s beaten pretty easily, so I was even kind of doubting myself, but I’ve gotta say to the fans, you guys motivated me,” Strickland expressed his gratitude.
Strickland set the tone for victory with a thunderous right hand at the end of the first round, nearly securing a knockout. Although Adesanya managed to survive until the break, he struggled to regain momentum for the remainder of the fight.
Known for his creative striking, Adesanya grew increasingly desperate as the fight progressed. He only managed to win one of the five rounds, with the three judges unanimously awarding the rest to Strickland with identical 49-46 scorecards.
(Reporting by Philip O’Connor; Editing by Michael Perry)
Other Headlines:
- 83-year-old Pelosi runs for reelection to Make America San Francisco. Also, Lindsey Graham could have been indicted by the Fulton County DA, while Mark Meadows’ request is shot down.
- Following 45th President Donald Trump’s fourth indictment, Black and Latino voters say they will support him in 2024.
- 1600 scientists from around the world, including 321 from the U.S., have signed the ‘World Climate Declaration’ saying there is no Climate Emergency.
- In an exclusive interview, Kentucky Senator Rand Paul tells One America News that as new COVID requirements are emerging at some schools, there is no good science to support mandatory masks and vaccines among young people.
- A federal appeals court on Friday ruled the White House, the FBI and top health…
- A new series of smartphones launched by China’s Huawei Technologies has drawn global…
- PetroChina has acquired 100% of electric vehicle (EV) charging firm Potevio New Energy Co Ltd in the latest lower-carbon investment…
- U.S. chip firm Nvidia and India’s Reliance on Friday said they have formed a partnership to create…
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
