After seven long years, at UFC 287, Israel Adesanya finally managed to bag a victory over Alex Pereira, and now we’re looking at what might be next for the top dog at 185 pounds.
After you’ve been rendered unconscious, it’s extremely difficult to set foot back in the cage, especially against the man responsible for the life-altering moment. However, in a testament to ‘Style Bender’s’ mental strength, he not only beat his ‘boogeyman’, but he did it in explosive fashion.
And while we’ll let him enjoy the moment for the time being, attention has already switched to whom he’ll fight next. Therefore, we’re having a look at five viable contenders.
1) Alex Pereira
It was almost getting to the point where if Adesanya took up cooking, Pereira would’ve whipped out a frying pan and won MasterChef.
It seemed no matter how far the Nigerian ran; his Brazilian nemesis would find a way to catch him. And while he’s finally got the monkey off his back, in all reality, it’s still 3-1 to ‘Poatan’, thus making this a match-up we must see again.
2) Khamzat Chimaev
Combat sports fans were pretty upset when the Swede missed weight at UFC 279 by seven-and-a-half pounds. But they soon forgave the formidable fighter when he rag-dolled Kevin Holland, finishing him via D’Arce choke.
With the terrifying operator now a fully-fledged middleweight, the world is desperate to see him finally get his shot at the belt.
3) Robert Whittaker
Despite losing their first collision in decisive fashion, most felt ‘Bobby Knuckles’ was very unlucky not to get the decision against Adesanya in their second encounter.
However, rather than let the disappointment get to him, Whittaker jumped right back on the horse and produced an impeccable performance against Marvin Vettori to solidify his place as the number one contender.
4) Jamahal Hill
While Adesanya’s first attempt at becoming a two-weight world champion didn’t work out, it’s definitely still a goal he has in mind. Therefore, should he decide to step back up to light heavyweight, it goes without saying that Jamahal Hill would welcome him with open arms.
5) Dricus du Plessis
It seems Dricus Du Plessis has really embedded himself under Adesanya’s skin. Despite just beating Pereira, the champ couldn’t help but deliver an angry response when questioned about his rival.
Therefore, with bragging rights on the line, they need to settle their beef. And with the fans still waiting for an event in Africa, perhaps Nigeria vs South Africa would be enough to convince Dana White to finally make the plunge.
Read: Matchmaker, Mathieu Nicourt, talks dream destinations for Hexagone MMA (sporf.com)
Featured Image Credit: Getty
