Sean Strickland, the perceived underdog, achieved a remarkable victory by defeating Israel Adesanya and securing the UFC middleweight championship at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday. Strickland emerged triumphant through a unanimous decision rendered by the judges’ scorecards following a captivating five-round contest.
In the latter moments of the last round, American Strickland engaged in taunting behavior towards Adesanya, displaying a sense of assurance in his impending triumph following a 25-minute period of persistently pursuing his adversary, adeptly defending against attacks, and employing his boxing skills to compel Adesanya to assume a defensive stance.
Adesanya, who has held the title of middleweight champion for the majority of the past four years, was unable to devise a strategy to overcome Strickland’s defense. The 34-year-old Nigerian fighter was repeatedly struck by Strickland’s forceful jabs, which impeded his performance.
Strickland expressed astonishment during an interview within the cage following the act of UFC president Dana White adorning the championship belt onto his waist, as reported by Reuters.
Following a confrontational reception en route to the octagon and a resounding show of support for Adesanya, who hails from the neighboring country of New Zealand, the audience lauded the newly crowned champion for his courageous display during the event.
Strickland noted that he had easily defeated most of his friends, leading to some self-doubt. However, he acknowledged the motivation provided by the supporters.
Strickland initiated a trajectory towards triumph by delivering a forceful right hand at the conclusion of the initial round, nearly achieving a knockout. Despite Adesanya’s ability to endure until the intermission, he failed to regain momentum thereafter.
Adesanya has emerged victorious in four out of his previous five bouts, whereas Strickland has achieved triumph in three out of his last five encounters.
