The world of combat sports had many memorable rivalries, and the one between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira is one among them. The two UFC middleweights have a rivalry that has been alive for over seven years. They have fought each other four times across two different sports with Pereira up 3-1 on the scorecards.
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However, as the saying goes, you’re only as good as your last fight. Therefore, the momentum is in Adesanya’s favor at the moment thanks to his recent knockout win over Pereira at UFC 287.
Despite finally getting one back against his archrival, Adesanya showed a great deal of respect for the Brazilian after the fight. After fighting each other four times, Pereira had no reluctance in returning the respect to his greatest adversary.
Imago
April 8, 2023, Miami, FL, Miami, Florida, United States: MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 8: L-R Alex Pereira punches Israel Adesanya in their middleweight fight during the UFC 287 event at Kaseya Center on April 8, 2023 in Miami, FL, United States. Miami, FL United States – ZUMAp175 20230408_zsa_p175_193 Copyright: xAlejandroxSalazarx
Despite the trolling and antics post-fight, Adesanya has now penned down a heartfelt message for his nemesis, thanking him for the rivalry.
Israel Adesanya sends a warm message to Alex Pereira
In a recent tweet, Israel Adesanya expressed his gratitude to Alex Pereira for their legendary rivalry. The 33-year-old also wrote about his love for the game.
Adesanya wrote, “ I love this game Nothing compares on this planet, in this life than putting it all on the line.”
Speaking of the rivalry, Adesanya said, “Our individual legends will always be intertwined because of the stories we’ve told with our beautiful violence. I’m grateful we have this rivalry, I’m grateful he beat me. It forced me to grow, made me better.”
💘💘💘❤️🔥 I love this game. 🎲🎲
Nothing compares on this planet, in this life than putting it all on the line. One shot, the whole world watching…waiting…then BOOM!! 🤯 HISSTORY.
Our individual legends will always be intertwined because of the stories we’ve told with our… pic.twitter.com/SAuRf2SzSo— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) April 26, 2023
He continued, “Shoutout to the Warrior from Brazil Alex “Poatan” Pereira!”
The rivalry seems to be on hold for the moment. Since the loss, Pereira has announced his next fight will be at light heavyweight. Meanwhile, Israel Adesanya has shifted his focus to a new opponent for his next fight.
However, there are many who want to see a trilogy between the pair in the UFC. Do you think it will happen? Who will win that one?
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Let us know in the comments below.
