Israel Adesanya regained his middleweight title by defeating his bitter rival Alex Pereira with a spectacular knockout at UFC 287 in Miami, Florida.
The victory was especially significant for Adesanya as it avenged his three previous defeats to Pereira, who had won their previous bout in November 2022 to claim the title.
ADESANYA GETS ONE BACK! HE KNOCKS PEREIRA OUT COLD! 😱 #UFC287 pic.twitter.com/P01reBg6je
— UFC (@ufc) April 9, 2023
Adesanya, who had lost twice to Pereira in kickboxing in 2016 and 2017, was able to land two powerful right hands in round two after being backed against the cage. This stunning display of skill and athleticism was enough to send Pereira, who is two years older than Adesanya at 35, to the canvas.
Speaking after the fight, Adesanya expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to feel such a high level of happiness, noting that it was only possible by persevering through the challenges and setbacks that life inevitably brings.
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He emphasized the importance of fortifying one’s mind and spirit in order to achieve success.
“I hope every one of you can feel this level of happiness for one time in your life,” said Nigeria-born New Zealander Adesanya.
It doesn't get more inspirational than THIS 🙌
Pure joy for @Stylebender #UFC287 pic.twitter.com/fVhL9HyYxH
— UFC (@ufc) April 9, 2023
“But guess what – you’ll never feel this level of happiness if you don’t go for something in your life. When they knock you down, if you stay down you will never get that resolve.
“Fortify your mind and feel this level of happiness. I’m blessed to feel this again and again and again.”
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The rivalry between Adesanya and Pereira has been a major storyline in the MMA world, with Adesanya describing it as the “greatest storyline in MMA history.”
After losing to Pereira in their previous bout, Adesanya redoubled his efforts and dedicated himself fully to MMA. He went on to become UFC middleweight champion in 2019 and defended his unified belt five times.
The fight itself was characterized by a series of feints and leg kicks in the opening stages, with Adesanya carefully circling away from Pereira’s dangerous left hook.
However, it was in the second round that things really heated up, as Pereira applied pressure and began to attack Adesanya against the cage. U
Unlike their previous bout, Adesanya was able to avoid taking any significant damage and was able to counter with two right hands that sent Pereira crashing to the ground.
In celebration, Adesanya mimicked Pereira’s bow and arrow taunt.