‘Lacklusterness’ to be Costa’s Downfall in the Fight Says Israel Adesanya

Ever since Israel Adesanya has stepped inside the octagon, he has been lauded for his precise striking. Under the tutelage of Eugene Bareman, Adesanya is known as one of the best strikers in the UFC. He may not possess brute power like Yoel Romero or Francis Ngannou. But he has impeccable timing, which more than makes up for his lack of power. 

At UFC 253, Adesanya will face Paulo Costa, who is the exact opposite of him in striking. Costa is known for his explosive strength. Though he may not be the most technical fighter, he more than makes up for it with his volume. This is one factor that will play a huge role in the fight. 

Israel Adesanya on his path to victory

Although his previous fight was not full of action, Adesanya did a commendable job of evading the right hand of Romero. He will look forward to pulling off something similar in his upcoming bout. To quote Israel himself,  “I Don’t throw and hope, I aim and Fire.” 

Adesanya has always maintained that he expects Costa to be his usual reckless self. He plans on capitalizing by picking him apart. After all, an opponent like Costa will give Adesanya multiple opportunities to land counters. Nevertheless, Adesanya recognizes Costa as a legitimate threat.

“100 percent! Like I said, he’s a dangerous man, I’ve said this before as well, but so am I. What’s going to be his downfall is his lacklusterness. When it comes to me, he thinks like ahh, he’s just going to walk through whatever I throw at him. Alright, I welcome him to try.”

Both men seem confident about stopping each other in the octagon on September 26 at UFC 253. What are your thoughts on the fight?

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