Israel Adesanya Picks Former Rival to Evade Khamzat Chimaev’s ‘Violent’ Attempts

Israel Adesanya backs middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis in his upcoming bout against the dangerous Khamzat Chimaev

Israel Adesanya Picks Former Rival to Evade Khamzat Chimaev’s ‘Violent’ Attempts

Israel Adesanya backs Dricus Du Plessis ahead of Khamzat Chimaev fight (Image via X/Instagram)

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Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has consistently demonstrated technical expertise in his fight analysis and has remained outspoken about his beliefs. He recently shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated middleweight championship fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. However, his decision on the winner was unaffected despite his feud with Du Plessis.

Adesanya is well-known for his pre-event bout analysis on his “FREESTYLEBENDER” YouTube channel, evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each competitor. By predicting the fight’s outcome, he also adds a technical element to the battle. ‘Stylebender’ reckons Chimaev will have the upper hand if he finishes Du Plessis early on, but it is not guaranteed.

Khamzat showed his hand, he’s going to go after him from the get-go. But I think DDP will weather the storm, and probably finish Khamzat later on, because Khamzat, if it gets to Rounds 3, 4, 5, it’s going to be a problem. I say Round 3 or 4, DDP. But if Khamzat is going to win, it’s going to be in the first round, spectacular and violent. I am gonna go with DDP. He’ll get it done, He’s stubborn, I am gonna go Dricus by late TKO.

Israel Adesanya on FREESTYLEBENDER YT Channel

Adesanya believes that DDP has the power to push through Chimaev if he survives Chechen superstar’s power moves in the initial rounds. He believed that Du Plessis has the gas tank to produce a late finish if ‘Borz’ gasses out, much like he did against Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman.

The rivalry between Du Plessis and Adesanya is still fresh in the minds of fans. However, the two have shown respect for each other since their battle at UFC 305, last August. The South African star has also admitted to being nervous while sharing the ring with a legendary fighter like Adesanya.

The Nigerian-Kiwi fighter has shown interest in fighting Chimaev himself. He was impressed by Chimaev’s performance against former rival Robert Whittaker, which made him want to test himself. However, Adesanya was not able to follow through after his loss to Nassourodine Imavov.

The battle between the DDP and Chimaev is turning out to be a landmark. The MMA world is split between the two unbeaten titans in the impending title match. Many fans and commentators think that “Borz” has the advantage because of their superior wrestling skills and explosive moves. Nevertheless, Du Plessis has demonstrated his abilities and intends to use all of his ability to attack Chimaev.

Dricus Du Plessis reveals his game plan against Khamzat Chimaev in the first round

Dricus Du Plessis has made his mark in the middleweight division with his impressive resume, comprising champions and veterans alike. However, his fight against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 is considered his biggest test. Both fighters are undefeated in the UFC with professional prowess in their styles. However, many doubts are arising due to Chimaev’s early stoppage history.

Dricus Du Plessis reveals game plan for Khamzat Chimaev
Dricus Du Plessis reveals game plan for Khamzat Chimaev (via The Citizen/Forbes)

he middleweight champion recently revealed his game plan to counter the explosive start of the Chechen fighter. He believes that attacking remains the key to controlling Chimaev’s takedowns and power moves. ‘Stillknocks’ revealed that he was not going to defend Chimaev’s takedowns, but instead attack him and not give him any openings.

It’s going to be absolute chaos. I don’t see him coming with a different game plan, and me neither I am going in there to kill him; I am not going out there to defend Khamzat’s takedowns, I am going out there to attack. I think its going to look a little bit different.

Dricus Du Plessis via Submission Radio

DDP also acknowledged Chimaev’s previous opponents, Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns, to explain his case further. He believed that attacking was the key to winning any fight, and he wanted to capitalize on the openings rather let his opponent dictate the pace.

The South African star also further spoke about his wrestling prowess, which he believed was underrated. So far, no one has outwrestled DDP in the UFC. Du Plessis plans to show the world that he was a complete MMA fighter.

The fight is even more interesting as both fighters are undefeated in the UFC and have victories over former champions. As such, Dricus Du Plessis intends to show the world that he could face anyone from any style and prove his championship status.

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