Nassourdine Imavov has secured the biggest win of his career, defeating former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya on February 1, 2025, at UFC Saudi Arabia. In a fight that had high stakes for both competitors, Imavov delivered a stellar performance that cements his place among the division’s elite.
Imavov’s Career-Defining Victory
Ranked #5 in the middleweight division, Nassourdine Imavov (16-4) stepped into the octagon as the underdog but left as a serious title contender. Utilizing his precise striking, solid defense, and well-timed counters, Imavov controlled the fight from the opening bell. His ability to neutralize Adesanya’s signature movement and striking proved to be the key factor in his victory.
Reflecting on his win, Imavov stated, “I knew this was my moment. Adesanya is a legend, but I was prepared for everything he brought. This victory puts me exactly where I want to be—at the top.”
Adesanya’s Struggles Continue
For Israel Adesanya (24-5), this defeat marks another setback in his storied career. After losing his title to Sean Strickland and suffering a submission loss to current champion Dricus Du Plessis, Adesanya hoped to use this fight as a stepping stone back to the top. However, Imavov’s calculated approach and superior execution left the former champion unable to find his rhythm.
Despite the loss, Adesanya remained gracious in defeat, saying, “He fought a great fight. No excuses. I’ll take my time, reassess, and come back stronger.” His future in the middleweight division now remains uncertain, with speculation about whether he might take an extended break or consider a move up in weight.
What’s Next for the Middleweight Division?
Imavov’s triumph significantly shakes up the UFC middleweight landscape. With Dricus Du Plessis set to defend his title against Sean Strickland, and Khamzat Chimaev also vying for a shot, Imavov has now positioned himself as a prime candidate for a title eliminator or even a championship opportunity.
Dana White praised Imavov’s performance, stating, “He just beat one of the greatest middleweights of all time. He’s in the mix, no doubt about it.” A potential showdown against the winner of Du Plessis vs. Strickland or a high-profile fight against Chimaev could be next for the French fighter.
A Star is Born
With this victory, Nassourdine Imavov has officially arrived as a top contender. His calculated approach, technical striking, and ability to dismantle a seasoned champion like Adesanya prove that he belongs among the division’s best. As he basks in the biggest win of his career, the question now is: how far can Imavov go?
UFC Saudi Arabia delivered a historic moment, and for Nassourdine Imavov, the future has never looked brighter.