In a slump, Israel Adesanya is challenged by a new UFC top-15 fighter: 'He talked a bit of nonsense'

Adesanya in training. Photo: Courtesy of Facebook/UFC

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UFC star Israel Adesanya has gone from being a feared fighter to being seen as an ideal target for other middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) competitors. In March, in Seattle (USA), the former king of the category was knocked out by Joe Pyfer in the second round, thus suffering his fourth consecutive defeat. As a 'reward', the Nigerian has been receiving constant challenges and has now entered the sights of Abus Magomedov , who has just entered the rankings.

At UFC Baku , an event held last Saturday (27), the Russian impressed in the octagon by finishing Michal Oleksiejczuk in the first round and, excited by the great performance, challenged Adesanya. The interesting thing is that the athlete has competition from Ateba Gautier , Shara Magomedov and Yousri Belgaroui. As he is the only ranked fighter in the race to face the former champion, Magomedov believes he has earned the fight, especially since he hasn't forgotten the day he was underestimated by him.

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“I’m happy. He was a tough opponent. I knew I needed to stay focused and do my job. In the end, it was worth it. I have a name in mind and I hope the UFC gives me that fight. I want to fight Adesanya. Right now, we’re practically on the same level. I hope to get that fight after my performance,” said the athlete, who is ranked 15th in the middleweight division.

“I’m not one for challenges and things like that. Only one guy, and that was Adesanya. We’ve had some conversations in the past, he talked some trash about me, and I think now is the time. I hope we fight someday. Much respect for Adesanya. He was a champion, and I grew up watching his fights, but now it’s my turn,” he concluded.

Magomedov's Fighters in MMA

Abus Magomedov , 35, began his MMA career in 2010 and debuted in the UFC in 2022. Currently, the Russian is ranked 15th in the middleweight division. In the sport, he has built a record of 29 wins, seven losses, and one draw. His main victories were over Brunno Hulk , Michal Oleksiejczuk , and Michel Pereira.

Magomedov celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Getty Images/Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC

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