Caio Borralho challenges Israel Adesanya and questions the former champion's willpower: 'He lost focus'

Caio Borralho He is a Brazilian standout in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

PUBLICITY:

With the victory over Jared Cannonier No. ufc vegas 96, Caio Borralho became the first Brazilian to reach the top 5 in the middleweight category (up to 83,9 kg) since Alex Poatán left the division in April 2023. And despite having challenged the champion Dricus Du Plessis After the victory last Saturday (24), it seems that the 'Fighting Nerds' athlete has a new target: Israel adesanya.

In an interview with 'Submission Radio', the Brazilian said he was unsure about the former champion's mental state, questioning the willpower of his possible opponent in his last fight, against Dricus Du Plessis.

See too

VIDEO: Anderson Silva's son slaps opponent before boxing match

Khabib's cousin denies doping accusation: 'I know who I am'

Jones rules out fight with Aspinall, reveals current weight and says: 'I'm older, but I would still win'

“There was a point where he gave up on the fight. I think he got tired, lost focus and started doing things he doesn’t usually do. He was throwing a lot of punches, just trying to knock him out, just to get out of there. So I don’t know if Adesanya still has the same focus. This time he seemed a little more scared and gave up a minute before the end of the fight. If you see, he gave us some signs that he didn’t want to be there anymore,” said the fighter.

When asked about a possible confrontation with his rival Alex Poatán, Borralho showed confidence in his ability, even talking about winning the fight quickly.

“Jared is the most powerful guy in the division. So, if I made him step back, I would certainly do the same to anyone. I will put a lot of pressure on Adesanya. I may be the only guy who uses feints and kicks the same way he does, and I have an advantage in wrestling and grappling as well. So, he will always be wondering if I will put him on the ground or if I will just trade punches. I will put pressure on him and maybe get a good knockout or a good takedown, and I will definitely finish him. With all due respect, but that is how I see this fight”, he stated.

Israel adesanya

At 35 years old, Adesanya is going through the most difficult moment of his career. With only one victory in his last four fights, the Nigerian announced a hiatus until 2027 after the defeat to Sean Strickland. In addition to the knockout over Alex Poatán, the athlete has victories against two other Brazilians: Paulo borrachinha and the legend Anderson Silva.