UFC 293, the highly anticipated mixed martial arts extravaganza, will kick off on September 10, 2023, at the iconic Kudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Following the thrilling Werdum vs. Tybura clash in November 2017, this event marked the triumphant return of the Ultimate Fighting Championship to Sydney, a city steeped in MMA history.
UFC 293 Adesanya vs. Strickland: Middleweight Showdown
The highlight of the night was the UFC Middleweight Championship duel between two-time champion Israel Adesanya and determined rival Sean Strickland. Notably, former title challenger Jared Cannonier was on hand as a replacement, ready for the fight if fate called for it.The event was originally scheduled to feature a women’s flyweight bout between Casey O’Neal and Vivian Araujo. Unfortunately, O’Neal’s untimely injury forced veteran Jennifer Maia to replace her, and the intriguing bout was postponed until UFC Fight Night 227. In another exciting matchup, former UFC Flyweight Championship interim contender Kai Cara-France was scheduled to face off. Seasoned Manel Cape.
However, his fate had other plans as a training accident at Cara-France led to his retirement. Their debutant Felipe dos Santos entered the field ready to take his chance.
A week ago fans were expecting an easy fight between Nasrat Haqparast and Sam Patterson. The setback came when Patterson’s health was prioritized, leading to the addition of new promoter Landon Quinones on Season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter.
At the weigh-in, Shane Young tipped the scales at 149.75 pounds, breaking the limit for a non-title featherweight bout in a dramatic turn of events. As a result, his match was moved to a catchweight contest with a 30% purse penalty, and his opponent was Gabriel Miranda.
Strickland surprises Adesanya: historic surprise UFC 293
In a turn of events that few could have predicted, Sean Strickland has emerged as the new UFC middleweight champion, etching his name in MMA history. His calculated aggression and relentless pressure kept Adesanya at bay throughout his grueling five rounds. The decisive moment came early, when an accurate right cross from Strickland sent Adesanya to the canvas and set the tone for the rest of the fight.
Adesanya, usually known for his precision and calculated striking, was placed in an unfamiliar position and constantly on the defensive. Spectators saw Adesanya recover, but the elusive spark in his offense was never ignited. Strickland’s victory, which many saw as unlikely, defied all odds and left a mark on UFC history.
UFC 293 This was not a coincidence, but a planned demolition.
In a stunning upset of UFC 293, Strickland’s tactical mastery overcame Adesanya’s superb attacking ability. Despite never attempting a takedown, Strickland deftly controlled the fight and drove Adesanya toward the cage with a disciplined “Philly Shell” style. Strickland’s head movement and tight guarding thwarted Adesanya’s counterattacks, who relied on precise punches and timely crosses to dominate. While Adesanya had a solid Round 2, Strickland’s relentless pressure and precision ultimately secured the victory, with Adesanya unable to mount a comeback in the final round.
Indeed, UFC 293 could be argued as the most monumental upset in UFC title history.
Georges St-Pierre and Ronda Rousey suffered shocking upsets in their careers, but Strickland’s victory over Adesanya was special. Unlike other troubles, this one was not due to luck or mistakes. The heavy favorite Adesanya faced a strong opponent in Strickland, who was not seen as a clear contender. Strickland’s victory defied expectations and highlighted his unique skill.
Adesanya’s loss to Perera last year showed he is not invincible. However, Strickland’s victory, taking advantage of Adesanya’s strength, is considered one of the most improbable upsets in UFC history. Unlike Holm-Rousey, where the difference in striking skill was obvious, Strickland’s victory was an unexpected triumph of skill and strategy. This upheaval is unique in its unpredictability.
While Adesanya’s star power may warrant consideration, he doesn’t merit a rematch.
The UFC has a tendency to award dethroned champions instant rematches, a trend that has been used a lot in recent years. Even Valentina Shevchenko, who surprisingly lost to Alexa Grasso, is open to a rematch for her title. But in Adesanya’s case, with her losing her title twice in 10 months and fighting Strickland, it might be time for the UFC to look elsewhere. Drikas du Plessis is already facing another title shot, and rising star Khamzat Chimaev’s next fight against Paulo Costa could be his next challenge. While Strickland Adesanya II may make economic sense, it may not actually be the most appropriate move.
UFC 293 : Adesanya vs. Strickland – A Night of Surprises Frequently Asked Questions
- When did UFC 293 take place?
- UFC 293 took place on September 10, 2023.
- Where was UFC 293 held?
- UFC 293 was held at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- What was the main event of UFC 293?
- The main event of UFC 293 was the UFC Middleweight Championship bout between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland.
- Who were the backup fighters for the main event?
- Jared Cannonier was expected to serve as a backup and potential replacement for the Adesanya vs. Strickland fight.
- Were there any significant changes to the fight card before the event?
- Yes, there were some changes to the fight card. Casey O’Neill was replaced by Jennifer Maia in a women’s flyweight bout, and Kai Kara-France withdrew, leading to the debut of Felipe dos Santos in a flyweight bout.
- What happened at the weigh-ins for UFC 293?
- Shane Young weighed in over the featherweight non-title fight limit and his bout proceeded at catchweight. He was also fined 30% of his purse.
- What made Strickland’s victory over Adesanya historic?
- Strickland’s victory was considered historic because it was an unexpected upset without an obvious excuse for the champion’s defeat. Adesanya was a heavy favorite, but Strickland’s calculated approach and relentless pressure led to the surprising outcome.
- What was the co-main event of UFC 293?
- The co-main event featured a dominant performance by Alexander Volkov against Tai Tuivasa, culminating in a rare Ezekiel Choke submission victory for Volkov.
- How did Manel Kape perform in his bout against Felipe dos Santos?
- Manel Kape showcased his skills and secured a unanimous decision victory against the debuting Felipe dos Santos in a gritty battle of wills.
- How did City Kickboxing fighters fare at UFC 293?
- City Kickboxing had a mixed night of results. While some fighters faced defeats, others, like Tyson Pedro, Carlos Ulberg, and Kevin Jousset, delivered impressive performances.
- Who were some of the notable fighters mentioned in the honorable mentions section?
- Justin Tafa stood out with a quick win by landing a powerful left hook. Nasrat Haqparast demonstrated his striking prowess in a unanimous decision victory.
- What was the overall significance of UFC 293 in MMA history?
- UFC 293 will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in MMA history, characterized by unexpected turns and triumphant moments. Strickland’s historic victory and a series of captivating matchups solidified its place in the annals of the sport.
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In a turn of events that few could have predicted, Sean Strickland has emerged as the new UFC middleweight champion, etching his name in MMA history. His calculated aggression and relentless pressure kept Adesanya at bay throughout his grueling five rounds. The decisive moment came early, when an accurate right cross from Strickland sent Adesanya to the canvas and set the tone for the rest of the fight.
Adesanya, usually known for his precision and calculated striking, was placed in an unfamiliar position and constantly on the defensive. Spectators saw Adesanya recover, but the elusive spark in his offense was never ignited. Strickland’s victory, which many saw as unlikely, defied all odds and left a mark on UFC history.