Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has made it clear that he wants another shot at Sean Strickland, the man who ended his second title reign in September 2023. Adesanya has faced a challenging stretch in his career with three consecutive losses, and is channeling his frustration and anger as motivation for a potential rematch.
Israel Adesanya Seething
The rivalry between Adesanya and Strickland began at UFC 293 in Sydney, where Strickland pulled off a major upset, defeating Adesanya by unanimous decision and claiming the middleweight title. Since then, Adesanya has openly reflected on the defeat and his recent struggles, but insists that his desire to fight again is rooted in something deeper than championships or fame.
Why the UFC’s Most Controversial Fighter Is in His Crosshairs
MMA analyst and former fighter Chael Sonnen, in conversation with ‘The Last Stylebender,’ recently commented on Israel Adesanya’s mindset, stating:
“You must understand one thing: he does not fight for world championships. He does not fight for money. He does not fight for fame. He fights out of anger. The one Izzy you don’t want to see-it’s not the one that trained hard or trained in New Zealand or that was drinking a little bit in between or went and found David Goggins. That’s not the one you got to care about. You got to care about the Izzy that’s mad at you. Then you have a problem.”
Adesanya himself has acknowledged the need for “get back” against Strickland, telling his coach and fans that he is ready to return to the Octagon for this specific challenge. “I know who, I have a feeling who I want to fight,” Adesanya said on his YouTube channel. “I have to get some get back. Strickland. I’m going to get him back.
Israel Adesanya’s Revenge Tour
Sean Strickland, now ranked No. 2 in the division, has shown respect for Adesanya despite their rivalry, recognizing Adesanya’s impact and legacy in the sport. However, the competitive tension remains high, with both fighters coming off recent losses and seeking to reestablish themselves in the middleweight hierarchy.
Adesanya’s approach to this rematch is marked by a sense of unfinished business. After reviewing his loss to Strickland, he expressed confidence that the outcome would be different in a second meeting. “I’m quietly confident,” Adesanya said. “That’s after watching the fight. I was like, ‘Oh yeah, I see [what went wrong].’”
While the UFC has not officially scheduled the rematch, the anticipation continues to build. Both fighters have indicated their willingness to meet again, and the matchup is seen as logical for the division’s future. As Israel Adesanya prepares for his return, it is clear that anger and the desire for redemption are fueling his pursuit of Sean Strickland.
