In an electrifying showdown that captivated fans at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, American fighter Sean Strickland secured a resounding victory over the Nigerian-born New Zealander Israel Adesanya to seize the coveted middleweight title. This historic clash marked the return of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to Australia’s largest city after a six-year hiatus.
The 32-year-old Strickland (28-5), whose pre-fight comments had sparked controversy with their sexist and misogynistic undertones during a news conference, displayed unwavering focus and skill in the octagon. All three judges unanimously scored the bout 49-46 in Strickland’s favor, solidifying his status as the new middleweight champion.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Strickland exclaimed, “Am I dreaming? Am I going to wake up? Someone hit me… I don’t cry much, but I’m trying to keep it together right now.” He continued, “I give up so many brain cells to the MMA gods… I thought I’d be walking away a little bloody, a little broken up. I’m a little shocked that didn’t happen.”
Despite vocal support from the crowd, Adesanya (24-3) entered the contest as the clear favorite, aiming to defend the title he had claimed from Alex Pereira at UFC 281 in April. However, Strickland’s counterattacking prowess proved to be a formidable challenge for the champion.
The opening rounds saw a tactical approach from both fighters, with Adesanya carefully analyzing Strickland’s unique style. It was Strickland who struck first, delivering a precise straight shot that sent Adesanya to the canvas. Seizing the opportunity, Strickland unleashed a flurry of strikes to close the first round decisively.
Adesanya demonstrated increased assertiveness in the subsequent rounds, finding his rhythm with kicks and right-hand shots. Yet, his vulnerability to Strickland’s body and head strikes remained evident.
As the fight progressed, Adesanya found it increasingly difficult to penetrate Strickland’s solid defense. In the final minutes, Strickland seized the moment, launching a relentless barrage of punches and kicks that underscored his path to victory and the middleweight championship.
Reflecting on his performance, Strickland remarked, “You don’t fight that guy with that many highlight-reel knockouts. The majority of my friends, he’s beaten pretty easily. I was even kind of doubting myself at times.” He attributed his motivation to the passionate Australian fans, stating, “When I’m walking in here and I heard you guys yelling. In that fourth round, I heard you guys yelling. It fueled me.”
The UFC event made headlines in the New South Wales state legislature due to Strickland’s controversial comments, which led to debates surrounding the state’s financial support of approximately $10 million to host the event. Strickland had stepped in as a late replacement for Adesanya’s South African rival Dricus du Plessis, who was sidelined due to injury. Strickland’s ascent to the title fight came on the heels of victories over Abus Magomedov and Nassourdine Imavov.
In the co-main event, Alexander Volkov (37-10) displayed his dominance in a heavyweight clash against 30-year-old Sydney native Tai Tuivasa. Despite an injury to his front leg, Volkov, the 34-year-old Russian, showcased his resilience, landing a barrage of strikes and ultimately submitting Tuivasa in the second round with a chokehold.
Tyson Pedro, representing Australia, ignited the main card with a first-round knockout of Sweden’s Anton Turkalj, while New Zealander Justin Tafa replicated the feat by defeating American Austen Lane in a heavyweight bout. In an entertaining flyweight match, Manel Kape secured a five-round unanimous decision victory over Felipe dos Santos.