Israel Adesanya reveals dream opponent he would have liked to have tested himself against - "I like the style, his cadence, his rhythm, his showmanship"
Israel Adesanya is the definition of a modern-day superstar. 'The Last Stylebender' not only performs in the octagon, he has the charisma and personality that contemporary fans often look for.
Adesanya's ability to put on captivating performances is what has made him a fan favorite for much of his UFC career.
The reigning middleweight champion will need to use all of his slick striking and fluent footwork this weekend when he takes on Alex Pereira at UFC 281.
In a recent interview with Chisanga Malata of The Sun, 'The Last Stylebender' was asked who his dream opponent would be. Interestingly, Adesanya named the enigmatic boxing legend Prince Naseem Hamed as the man he would have most liked to face:
"I would have liked to have fought Prince Naseem Hamed. Just 'cause I liked his style, his cadence, his rhythm, his showmanship, everything. So I would have liked to test myself against that guy."
Watch the interview below from 2:00:
Prince Naseem Hamed was a one-of-a-kind boxing talent with an uncanny ability to switch angles and hit opponents with punches that they didn't see coming. Combined with his quick-witted microphone skills, he was a must-see attraction during his prime years.
Hamed retired with a professional record of 36-1, winning 31 of his fights via KO. He was a multiple time world champion, and held the WBO title from 1995 to 2000, the IBF title in 1997, and the WBC title from 1999 to 2000.
Israel Adesanya says that he will hurt Alex Pereira badly during their fight
Israel Adesanya is set to face off against Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 281 in New York. There is a different feeling about this middleweight title fight, with Pereira being the only man to boast a 2-0 record over 'The Last Stylebender' in combat sport.
The history between the two men has elevated the hype behind this fight and made UFC 281 arguably the most anticipated card of 2022. 'Poatan' defeated Adesanya twice in kickboxing, and many expect this fight to be a stand-up war.
The reigning middleweight champion spoke to the media yesterday and said that he will "touch Pereira badly" when the time comes:
"We'll have one more final face off before I touch him, and I'm gonna touch him bad... He can do whatever he wants. Like I said, it's his moment as well. But again, I'll remind people who I am."
Watch the interview below from 0:30:
Israel Adesanya will put his belt and undefeated record at 185 lbs. on the line when he faces off against Alex Pereira on Saturday Night.
The power that 'Poatan' possesses is a sight to behold. However, Israel Adesanya's striking is as high-level as any MMA fighter in history. It could be a fight for the ages.