Nassourdine Imavov shocked the MMA world by knocking out former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya. The fight took place on February 2 at the ANB Arena in Riyadh during UFC Fight Night Saudi Arabia.
Adesanya began the fight with powerful leg kicks and quickly gained control. Imavov struggled to keep up with Adesanya’s fluid movements, looking confused at times. Despite being under pressure, Imavov hung on and absorbed Adesanya’s strikes. However, late in the first round, Imavov landed a clean uppercut and attempted a double-leg takedown but couldn’t complete it.
In the second round, Adesanya showed confidence, while Imavov remained calm. Adesanya continued his attack with jabs and hard leg kicks to the body. During an exchange, Imavov accidentally poked Adesanya’s eye. Taking advantage, Imavov landed a big shot that sent Adesanya to the ground. Adesanya turned his back, allowing Imavov to finish the fight.
Following his win, Imavov immediately called for a middleweight title shot. The title will be on the line next week when champion Dricus du Plessis faces Sean Strickland in a title defense.
Imavov’s victory over the second-ranked fighter makes his title challenge more legitimate. Strickland, ranked number one, will face du Plessis for the championship. Imavov is now eyeing a future battle for the middleweight crown.
Adesanya landed some good jabs throughout the fight. Imavov tried an early takedown, but Adesanya defended it well. In the first round, Adesanya’s missed left hook was followed by a powerful left jab.
