By Nigerian News24 staff
Israel Adesanya Eyes Rematch With Strickland: “I Have to Get Some Get Back”
Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is determined to avenge his loss to Sean Strickland, signaling a strong desire for a rematch after a tough run in his career.
Strickland shocked the MMA world at UFC 293 in Sydney by defeating Adesanya via unanimous decision, ending Adesanya’s second reign as champion. Now, after three straight defeats—the worst skid of his professional career—Adesanya says he’s fuelled not by titles or fame, but by the need to settle a score.
“I have to get some get back. Strickland. I’m going to get him back,” Adesanya said in a video on his YouTube channel.
MMA veteran and analyst Chael Sonnen emphasized that it’s Adesanya’s anger, not ambition, that makes him most dangerous. “You don’t want to face the Izzy that’s mad at you,” Sonnen said. “Then you have a problem.”
Despite recent setbacks and speculation about retirement, Adesanya’s fire hasn’t gone out. After revisiting footage of his loss, he expressed quiet confidence in his ability to flip the outcome in a second fight.
His longtime coach, Eugene Bareman, acknowledged that retirement is on the table, but stressed that the decision is entirely in Adesanya’s hands: “If he’s going to fight again, then great. If not, we’ve been blessed.”
Strickland, now ranked No. 2 after briefly holding the title, has remained respectful toward Adesanya, acknowledging his influence and contributions to the sport.