Nigeria-born New Zealand mixed martial artist, Israel Adesanya has reclaimed the UFC middleweight belt title in UFC 287 with a spectacular knockout victory over perennial foe, Alex Pereira.
Adesanya, 33, claimed victory in the bout that took place at the FTX Arena, Miami, Florida early Sunday morning.
With his back against the cage in round two, the Last Stylebender unleased two crushing right hands to send Pereira, 35, to the canvas.
The Brazilian did not make it back up to continue the fight.
It was a sweet victory for Adesanya, who had suffered three defeats against Pereira.
Adesanya lost twice in kickboxing in 2016 and 2017, and at UFC 281 in November.
On his victory, Adesanya said, “I hope every one of you can feel this level of happiness for one time in your life.
“But guess what – you’ll never feel this level of happiness if you don’t go for something in your life. When they knock you down, if you stay down you will never get that resolve.
“Fortify your mind and feel this level of happiness. I’m blessed to feel this again and again and again.”
Many Nigerians have taken to Twitter to celebrate Adesanya’s victory.
Thank you Izzy. Knocked that dude out and killed some local agenda right there!
— JJ. Omojuwa (@Omojuwa) April 9, 2023
Israel Adesanya, Davido, Burna, chimamanda, whizzy and other great Nigerians have done more for the image of Nigeria than any Minister I have ever known. The quality of people make a country!
— oseni rufai (@ruffydfire) April 9, 2023
Nigerians are doing soo well in sport this year, From Victor oshimen to Chukwueze, to Orban Gift, and finally Isreal Adesanya has gotten his bet back.
We are soo talented as a Nation.
— valking ♔ (@_VALKlNG) April 9, 2023
That kind punch wey Isreal Adesanya use finish that other guy na wetin we dey call “1 bIow, 7 dįe” for streets
Once you chop am, you no go fit wait for another one 🙏🏾
— 𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐊 (@TheMahleek) April 9, 2023
The champion also appreciated the support.
Isreal Adesanya Appreciating Nigeria Twitter after he was told he was trending online!! Awon ara Adugbo Mi ❤️🇳🇬! AND NEW 👑 #UFC287 pic.twitter.com/8f5tkDYILV
— Buchi Laba (@Buchi_Laba) April 9, 2023
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