Imavov shocks Adesanya with epic knockout in a non-title-title conflict

In a stunning upheaval, Israel ADESANYA was brutally hit by Nassourdine Imavov in its first non -title match in almost six years.

Former Middleweight champion made his long -awaited return to the candidate’s ranks on Saturday night in Riyadh, facing the rising star Imavov, who had won remarkable victories over Joaquin Buckley and Jared Cannonier on his way.

The last ADESANYA UFC race was in February 2019, when he faced Anderson Silva in a night show in Melbourne.

Since then, he had claimed the temporary title, defended him six times and reviewed his dispute with Alex Pereira. However, the Nigerian who was born in Kiwi entered this fight against Imavov, having lost three of his last four periods.

Israel Adesanya in action during his fight against Nassourdine Imavov. Photo: Reuters

Despite the accumulation, Imavov remained somewhat under the radar heading to the race, though a victory over Adesanya would place him for a possible title.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with Cristiano Ronaldo superstar football star watching from Cageside, and Adesanya made his way into the Octagon with a calm, sure aura, still having the respect of a former champion.

He received a handshake from referee Marc Goddard before the match started.

The first round saw both fighters dealing with their feet, with Adesanya defending an early attempt to abolish Imavov before the couple exchanges strikes.

Nassourdine Imanov reacts to the end of his fight against Israel Adesanya. Photo: Reuters

However, the turning point came in the second round. Adesanya, who had pushed the action, was pushed to the eye, but chose not to take a break.

He continued to promote, but it was Imavov who took control. The Frenchman landed on a devastating right that fell to Adesanya on the canvas.

Imavov followed a powerful uppercut as adesanya, visibly stunned, tried to recover.

The French was quickly capitalized, wetting the punches on the former champion, forcing the referee to stop the match. Adesanya, frustrated with the interruption, was unable to defend himself as Imavov continued his attack.

Nassourdine Imanov falls on his knees to celebrate at the end of the race. Photo: Reuters

After the race, Imavov expressed his satisfaction, saying through a translator: “I feel so good, I said all week that I was in perfect form. I showed that I was the best striker tonight, now it’s time to fight for the belt.”

He dedicated his family, friends and training staff victory, adding: “Wander out of people who love you and love and you will grow up in this way.”

After his impressive victory, Imavov said with confidence: “There is no doubt that I deserve the title match – four wins in a year, he talks about himself.”

He also returned the opportunity to send a message to the current Du Plesis and Sean Strickland champion, who are going to face a rematch next week.

After the victory, UFC Color Paul Felder commentator praised Imavov for his impressive performance, underlining the personal and professional development he has undergone.

“I liked all this. The way he gives a voice outside his family, his friends, his team … Especially since he made this decision to make these changes in his career and move on with them Types.

Felder also argued for the title of Imavov, stating: “Based on this performance, give man a title shot. Firearm – is next.”

He further expressed confidence in Imavov’s ability to defend the zone, referring to his cohesion and activity in the Octagon.

UFC commentator Laura Sanko added in the future of Imavov, revealing that the Frenchman is willing to be a rematch against Sean Strickland, who defeated him by unanimous decision in January 2023.

“He really wants this rematch with Strickland. This was a fight where he was not himself, to a class of weight, strange circumstances,” Sanko noted. “He wants to go out there and rightly that mistake. The story he writes, If this happens to happen – obviously a lot of must play before that happen. “