UFC middleweight king Israel Adesanya took to Twitter and shared his views on coming out victorious at UFC 253. The city-kickboxing star reminded fans and fighters alike that he was the real deal after stomping on title challenger Paulo Costa. The event received a buzz from the MMA community on the fact that both headliners were undefeated heading into a title fight. This was only the second such instance in modern UFC history.
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‘The Last Stylebender’ truly felt vindicated after his victory over Costa and was fired up after the fight. He had received significant backlash from fans and media following his first title defense back at UFC 248. Israel faced off against Cuban Olympian, Yoel Romero, in a less than entertaining bout, to say the least. After his win at the Flash Forum, it is clear that Adesanya feels a weight lifted off his shoulder.
When I sit on a plane home... I sometimes think “what if I lost this one” I’ve been there, that plane ride suuucks! Hence why I own these wins the way I do. Especially when they talk hella shit!
Adesanya’s introspection came to light when he returned to the UFC’s cage after the fight and walked around the octagon. ‘The Last Stylebender’s reaction to his victory indicated his passion for the sport.
Hours after defending his world title, @stylebender returned to the Octagon for a moment of quiet reflection. (via lightningmikeangove/Instagram)
UFC 253: Israel Adesanya vs Paulo Costa
The aforementioned title fight was yet another sensational showing for ‘Izzy’ and was a textbook performance for him. Although the bout didn’t live up to the marketing for ‘Fight of the Year’, it wasn’t for lack of trying on the champion’s part.
Paulo Costa deviated from his patented forward pressuring fighting style and didn’t look like himself. The 13-1 Brazilian fighter found himself on the outside of Israel’s range, and he wasn’t backing up the champion.
When it was all said and done, @stylebender made it look easy 😏 #UFC253
‘Izzy’ certainly utilized his skill set in a large variety of ways and ended up brutalizing the title challenger. He threw a wide arsenal of offense that included question mark kicks that caused massive damage over time. Additionally, the New Zealand-based fighter left the octagon having barely absorbed any damage.
His statement victory at UFC 253 is a clear reminder that his reign is here to stay. Not to mention, the win marked his hundredth career victory across MMA, boxing, and kickboxing. As his profile continues to grow, it is without question that he will more lucrative opportunities in the cage. Moreover, his dominance at the 185-pound weight class is slowly beginning to catch up to the likes of Anderson Silva’s record.
