Nassourdine Imavov achieved a monumental victory by knocking out former champion Israel Adesanya during UFC Fight Night in Riyadh. This victory positions Imavov as a leading contender for the middleweight title, marking a historic moment for French MMA.
Imavov’s Path to Victory
The ANB Arena in Riyadh witnessed a stunning upset as Nassourdine Imavov defeated Israel Adesanya in the second round via TKO. Imavov, ranked 5th in the middleweight division, entered the bout with confidence, having secured victories over top contenders like Roman Dolidze and Jared Cannonier. His strategic preparation under coach Nicolas Ott paid off, as he capitalized on Adesanya’s momentary lapse in defense to deliver a decisive right hand.
Adesanya’s Strong Start
In the first round, Adesanya displayed his trademark precision and footwork, outstriking Imavov with significant blows (20 to 8) and successfully defending multiple takedown attempts. Despite Adesanya’s aggressive start, Imavov maintained composure and stuck to his game plan, focusing on mid-range striking and occasional grappling exchanges.
The Turning Point
The fight took a dramatic turn early in the second round. Imavov feinted a jab, causing Adesanya to lower his guard, and seized the opportunity to land a powerful right punch. This decisive blow left Adesanya staggered, allowing Imavov to press forward and secure the TKO, cementing his place in UFC history.
Implications for the Middleweight Division
Imavov’s victory over Adesanya shakes up the middleweight rankings and places him in prime position for a title shot. With current champion Dricus du Plessis set to defend his title against Sean Strickland next week, Imavov has made his intentions clear: “I am ready for the title. I’ve beaten a legend, and I deserve the belt,” he stated confidently in the post-fight interview.
What’s Next for Imavov?
With this win, Imavov joins the elite ranks of UFC middleweights, potentially setting up a future bout with the winner of the Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland fight. His impressive performance has not only elevated his status but also brought significant attention to French MMA, as he aims to become the first unified French champion in UFC history.