The rivalry between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira finally came to a head at UFC 287 in Miami-Dade Arena, with ‘The Last Stylebender’ ending the Brazilian’s reign on the scoreboard. Adesanya scored a spectacular knockout victory over his arch-nemesis and reclaimed the middleweight championship title. Going into this battle, Adesanya knew that it was a make-or-break situation, and he rose to the challenge with determination and skill. After suffering three consecutive losses to ‘Poatan’ in their long-standing combat sports history, this victory was undoubtedly a special moment for the New Zealander.
Following his win, Adesanya delivered an inspiring speech and sent a strong message to the world, making it a memorable moment for all UFC fans.
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Adesanya said, “I hope everyone of you, behind the screens or in this arena, can feel this level of happiness just one time in your life. I hope all of you can feel how f**king happy I am just once in your life.”
“You will never feel this level of happiness if you don’t go for something in your own life. When they knock you down, when they try and sh*t on you, when they talk sh*t about you and they try and put their foot on your neck, if you stay down, you will never get that resolve. Fortify your mind and feel this level of happiness as you rise, one time in your life. I’m blessed to be able to feel this sh*t again and again and again and again and again.”, he concluded.
The UFC commentator Joe Rogan was visibly moved by Adesanya’s words and heartfelt celebration at the moment. He couldn’t help but express his happiness for the 33-year-old fighter.
Joe Rogan moved by Israel Adesanya’s victory
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Joe Rogan is a master of getting the best out of the fighters post the fights, and he recently appeared to be strongly moved by Adesanya’s victory. Given that, the 55-year-old took to Instagram and shared his thoughts on experiencing such a moment in person.
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Rogan wrote, “Sometimes moments transcend sports and elevate everyone who experiences it. This was one of those moments. I feel incredibly honored to have witnessed this live. Congratulations to the great and powerful @stylebender, one of the absolute best to ever do it. WHAT A F**KING NIGHT!!!”
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Moments like this are what fans yearn for, and UFC 287 certainly delivered.
Watch this story: The Saga of Bad Blood Between Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya