The much-anticipated clash between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis took an unexpected turn as the South African fighter made the difficult decision to withdraw from the title fight at UFC 293. With the South African fighter’s departure, attention now shifts to a potential replacement for ‘Stillknocks’, and it seems that Sean Strickland has emerged as the frontrunner for the coveted spot.
Jared Cannonier, who has shared the octagon with both Adesanya and Strickland in the past, wasted no time in offering his prediction on this intriguing matchup.
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‘The Killa Gorilla’ candidly told Helen Yee, “Sean doesn’t even believe he could win that fight. He just wants to go in there and fight and get some money.” In contrast, Cannonier firmly believes he possesses the necessary skills to dethrone the reigning UFC middleweight champion. He sees himself as a legitimate contender, eager to seize the opportunity and claim the title.
With Cannonier’s words catching Strickland’s attention, the latter took the time to reflect on these remarks while also contemplating his previous bout against ‘The Killa Gorilla’.
Sean Strickland laughs off Jared Cannonier’s remarks
In response to Cannonier’s unfavorable comments, Sean Strickland took to Twitter, claiming that he believes he won the fight when they previously faced off.
Makes me laugh
to hear Cannonier opinion on me and Izzy.. I like him but man I won that fight, you know I won that fight, the announcers know I won the fight.I won the fight in first gear lol but yes you threw really hard, I don't know what they felt like but they looked hard.
— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) July 23, 2023
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The outspoken UFC star wrote, “Makes me laugh to hear Cannonier opinion on me and Izzy.. I like him but man I won that fight, you know I won that fight, the announcers know I won the fight. I won the fight in first gear lol but yes you threw really hard, I don’t know what they felt like but they looked hard.”
The UFC 293 middleweight title bout between Strickland and Adesanya is still awaiting official confirmation, leaving everyone curious about its fate. Both Cannonier and Strickland make strong cases for their potential success in the fight. Now it all comes down to the UFC putting forth an official announcement.
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Do you think Sean Strickland can defeat the reigning UFC middleweight champion at UFC 293? Or Israel Adesanya will defend his belt successfully in their clash? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
Watch this story: Israel Adesanya and Jon Jones Cross Paths and Get Into a Friendly Tussle