Israel Adesanya needs to make this change to beat Alex Pereira at UFC 287, per Henry Cejudo
Former UFC two-division champion Henry Cejudo has offered some sage advice to Israel Adesanya ahead of his highly anticipated title rematch against middleweight champion Alex Pereira at UFC 287 this weekend.
'Triple C', known for his strategic brilliance and mastery of multiple combat sports, advised Adesanya to focus on his footwork and distance management in order to avoid getting caught by Pereira's power shots. He emphasized the importance of staying light on the feet and using quick, precise movements to create angles and openings for counter-attacks. He stated:
"There's a couple ways and a couple areas that Israel could do to eventually win that, fight and one's gonna be his point fighting, don't turn into a slugfest with this guy don't throw it into a slugfest with a guy that's the Francis Ngannou of your damn weight class."
The former Olympic gold medalist added:
"Or two I bring in a surprise of the arsenal of wrestling because you did have 6 mins. and 32 secs. of control time. the first time you guys fought in mixed martial arts. there's keys to victory for Israel Adesanya. But you know this is where the IQ comes in, this is where the competitor meets the fighter, this is where the fighter needs to become a better competitor."
Check out Henry Cejudo's entire remarks below(from 2:53 onwards):
The UFC is set to make a triumphant return to Miami with UFC 287, marking the organization's second visit to the city in nearly two decades. Fans are eagerly anticipating the event, which is scheduled to feature a rematch for the UFC middleweight championship between reigning champion Alex Pereira and former titleholder Israel Adesanya as the main event.
The co-main event of the evening is a hog heaven for fight fans, as two of the biggest names in the welterweight division, Jorge Masvidal and Gilbert Burns, are set to collide.
It's Fight Week in Miami 🌴
#UFC287 | Saturday | BT Sport 1 https://t.co/y2R3cAzkCR
Israel Adesanya is convinced he knows exactly what he'll do to annihilate Alex Pereira at UFC 287
Israel Adesanya is determined to avenge his loss to Alex Pereira in their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 287 this weekend. Adesanya has expressed supreme confidence in his abilities, stating that he will be able to reclaim the title and leave Pereira in his wake.
'The Last Stylebender' analyzed his loss to 'Poatan' at UFC 281 last year and identified key areas where he believes he can improve.
The Nigerian native stated that he had underestimated Pereira's striking power and had not taken into account the Brazilian's counter-striking ability. However, Adesanya believes that he has learned from his mistakes and developed a new game plan that will enable him to finish Pereira.
"It's the hand, I blocked his eye. Boom. I hit it. Yeah, I know what to do. I know what to do next time. If you can make him bleed you can kill him. But this one, I want to make it a bloodbath. Like, I just get up and it's red from elbows. Just beating him lumpy..."
Check out the entire comment below: