At UFC 293, Israel Adesanya seemed poised to cement his legacy as one of the greatest middleweight champions in UFC history. However, Sean Strickland threw a wrench into the proceedings. Despite being the heavy favorite for the fight, Adesanya suffered a one-sided unanimous decision defeat to Strickland.

Following the fight, Adesanya chose not to attend the post-fight press conference, expressing his desire to be with his family and friends. Instead, his coach, Eugene Bareman, fielded questions from the media. Recently, on his YouTube channel ‘Freestylebender,’ Adesanya addressed the speculations surrounding his loss. Along with the challenges of being an active champion, and offered insights into his future plans. Adesanya was candid and delivered a surprising perspective on UFC belts.

Israel Adesanya reveals honest opinion on UFC title belts

When asked about his return to the Octagon, Adesanya responded with a chuckle, indicating uncertainty about his comeback. However, when questioned about his attachment to the championship belts, he shook his head, emphasizing that while the belts held significance, they were, in his view, akin to fancy accessories.

Adesanya stated, “The belts never mattered to me… it’s just a fancy tiara that brings more money… I’ve gone to the level now that belts are just a nice accessory. I’ve already got belts, I got many belts, I’m just gonna do it again. Just for fun, just for fun, you know.”

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The loss to Strickland marked Adesanya’s second defeat in his last three fights, following the loss of his title to Alex Pereira in their initial UFC encounter. However, he spectacularly regained the title by knocking out Pereira in their rematch. However, the possibility and outcome of a potential rematch with Sean Strickland remains uncertain. But the former champion looked back at his latest loss before looking ahead. In the same video, Adesanya shared his feelings during the five rounds he spent inside the Octagon with Strickland.

Adesanya breaks down what he felt during UFC 293

The fight against Sean Strickland commenced with Adesanya controlling the distance, while Strickland employed his renowned ‘Philly Shell’- style defense to apply pressure. Strickland landed a straight right against the fence, dropping Adesanya in the first round and following up with ground strikes. Adesanya survived and managed to reach the end of the round. Nevertheless, Strickland maintained consistent pressure and outperformed Adesanya, securing a clear victory to become the new UFC champion.

Reflecting on his emotions during the fight, Adesanya compared it to a peculiar experience, describing it as “like a bad dream.” He elaborated, “One of those where you… not even a nightmare. A nightmare is like, ‘Oh s**t. F**k.’ A nightmare, you’re scared. I was just like, you try to hit the guy, and it just felt like noodle arms. Like, ‘What the f**k.'”

Despite the fight’s outcome, there has been no official announcement regarding an immediate rematch. Dana White, in the post-fight press conference, mentioned the potential for a rematch, but his comments received mixed responses from analysts and fighters.

Who do you believe should be Israel Adesanya’s next opponent? Do you consider an immediate rematch between Adesanya and Strickland necessary? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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