“I Don’t Think He Has Enough Dance Moves to…” – Israel Adesanya’s Decision to Give Sean Strickland a Title Shot Instead of Waiting for Dricus Du Plessis Surprises UFC Welterweight Fighter

The hot topic that’s currently polarizing the UFC community revolves around the decision regarding a title fight. Who will be the next candidate to step up to Israel Adesanya for his 185lb title? Fans, critics, and fighters have shared different opinions about potential contenders in this narrative.

However, the acknowledgment of Sean Strickland as the challenger for Adesanya’s title has received mixed reactions, one of which comes from a notable UFC fighter.

In a recent interview with sports reporter Helen Yee, the American mixed martial artist lent his voice and analysis to this intriguing development. He shared his unique perspective on the championship bout. The welterweight also commented on the decision to offer Strickland a title shot. He also expressed surprise that the UFC didn’t opt to wait for the South African talent, Dricus Du Plessis. During the interview, he shared some insight into his reasoning and picks for the title shot.

Number one contender: Who should face Israel Adesanya next?

The popular sentiment regarding Adesanya’s next fight seems to be in favor of Sean Strickland. When asked about his take on who should fight ‘Izzy’ for the title, fighter Kevin Holland concurred. “It looks like Strickland’s gonna be the number one candidate for that”, stated the UFC fighter in the interview. However, the welterweight suggested a detour. Holland presented an interesting argument, putting forth another name as a suitable contender for Adesanya’s title – Dricus Du Plessis.

Fresh off his win against Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, Du Plessis is notably a novel challenge for Adesanya. According to Holland, ‘Stillknocks’ seemed a more compelling choice. “It would make money and it would make sense to probably wait for Du Plessis, it’s definitely a new challenge“, Holland proposed. He signified his belief that a contest against Du Plessis would hold significant commercial and competitive appeal as well. He favored Du Plessis in the conversation, hinting at how this pairing would be a better fit for the occasion at hand.

Ruling out Strickland: Why the ‘Man Dance’ won’t fare well

Despite acknowledging Strickland as the number one contender, Holland explains why he might not be an ideal opponent for Adesanya. A key reason he cites is Strickland’s seeming aversion to heavy-hitting. “Strickland doesn’t really like to get big hits”, commented Holland.

He also hinted at a potential disadvantage against ‘Stylebender’s precision striking. Beyond the punching power, Holland brought up Strickland’s fighting style. He expressed skepticism over its effectiveness against Adesanya’s versatile striking and footwork. He stated, “Strickland likes to do the Man Dance, but I don’t think he has enough dance moves to dance with Israel Adesanya”.

Read More: Amid Israel Adesanya Fight Rumors, Sean Strickland Ridicules Jake Paul Despite Win Against Ex-UFC Star Nate Diaz

Holland asserts that irrespective of whether Strickland or Du Plessis end up facing Adesanya, neither would pose a significant problem for the champion. He reinforces this belief in Adesanya’s prowess over both fighters and stated that “Israel will pick both of them apart”.

Kevin Holland’s take in the interview suggested his faith in Adesanya’s ability to excel in either matchup. His insights are a timely addition to the ongoing speculation regarding Adesanya’s next opponent. Who do you think should have a shot at the title next? Let us know below.

Watch This Story: Who Will Israel Adesanya Face Next?