The middleweight division has long yearned for fresh title contenders. In the aftermath of Anderson Silva’s reign, Israel Adesanya became the new and dominant ruler of the division.
Except for a minor setback against Alex Pereira last year, the ‘Last Stylebender’ has not only triumphed over most of the top ten fighters at 185 lbs, but he has also done so with conviction. Assuming his upcoming encounter with Sean Strickland holds no unforeseen surprises, he will step into October with victories over all those positioned above the 8th rank in the official UFC rankings.
While Israel Adesanya has showcased exceptional striking precision and fluidity, the realm of the UFC is renowned for its unexpected twists and upsets. In this context, enter Khamzat Chimaev, Bo Nickal, and Dricus Du Plessis- a trio of rising talents aspiring to test Adesanya’s skills and potentially even topple his supremacy.
Impending Challenges to Israel Adesanya
Khamzat Chimaev
Khamzat Chimaev’s grappling and ground control skills significantly challenge Israel Adesanya’s stand-up game. With an impressive record and reputation, Chimaev is a formidable opponent who could disrupt Adesanya’s game plan. Khamzat’s high-level grappling and wrestling prowess pose a significant challenge to Izzy.
However, an immediate championship shot sounds like a pretty generous prediction given that Chimaev hasn’t fought for almost a year and hasn’t competed at middleweight in three years.
Dricus du Plessis
Hailing from South Africa, Dricus du Plessis seamlessly merges striking power with a versatile skill set. His striking accuracy and knockout potential could capitalize on any defensive gaps in Adesanya’s game. du Plessis’ capacity to dictate the fight’s tempo might disrupt Adesanya’s customary rhythm and test his ability to regulate the fighting distance effectively.
Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis face off! 👀pic.twitter.com/9SGQcq2Xop
— Chamatkar Sandhu (@SandhuMMA) July 9, 2023
Currently, du Plessis is dominating the middleweight division after a decisive win over Robert Whittaker. Fans eagerly await a potential fight with Adesanya, with tensions high over African heritage. However, du Plessis had to decline the matchup due to an impractical scheduling demand from the UFC.
Bo Nickal
Bo Nickal, an accomplished wrestler, who seamlessly transitioned into MMA, poses a potential challenge to Israel Adesanya. His adaptability and evolution make him an intriguing contender. The 27-year-old fighter is equipped to control the fight’s location and potentially dethrone Adesanya.
The former Three NCAA champion brings a decorated wrestling background to the UFC. Compared with Adesanya’s striking prowess, Bo Nickal’s wrestling expertise adds a distinct dimension to his skill set. Regarded as one of the best wrestlers in the UFC, Nickal’s achievements and capabilities make him a significant contender.
UFC 293: Israel Adesanya vs. Sean Strickland
In the ever-evolving landscape of the middleweight division, the next standout fighter after Israel Adesanya could be a product of multifaceted skills. Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant wrestling and relentless pressure make him a contender to watch. His ability to mix grappling with striking adds a unique dimension.
Additionally, Bo Nickal’s world-class wrestling background and his adaptable striking could make him a force to reckon with. However, Sean Strickland, who’s set to face Adesanya, should be noticed. Strickland is good at different fighting skills and he’s very determined. If he wins, he could become the most important fighter in the Middleweight division.
2️⃣ 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗚𝗢!
See you soon Sydney! 🇦🇺 #UFC293 | @Sydney_Sider | @QudosBankArena | #ILoveSydney | #FeelNewSydney pic.twitter.com/PlEVVV8IML
— UFC_AUSNZ (@UFC_AUSNZ) August 27, 2023
Adesanya has been the top fighter for a while, but things might change now, and Strickland could be a big part of that change. This fight is like a turning point for middleweight fighters. If Strickland does well, it could be an exciting time for the division after Adesanya’s time.