Chris Weidman not some ‘old bum’; ready to take on Israel Adesanya despite leg-snap setback

Former UFC Middleweight champion Chris Weidman wants to take on current champion Israel Adesanya. Issues statement. Is ready to face him despite injury


Chris Weidman not some ‘old bum’; ready to take on Israel Adesanya despite leg-snap setback

Chris Weidman ready to take on Israel Adesanya ( Image source: L/R- Getty Images)

Chris Weidman faced a setback with a gruesome leg injury. But he is determined to prove himself as a top contender in the UFC. The former middleweight champion is set to make his highly anticipated return to the Octagon at UFC 292. Weidman’s opponent for this event will be the seasoned veteran Brad Tavares.

Weidman’s last UFC appearance was marred by a devastating leg break against Uriah Hall at UFC 261 in early 2021. However, the “All American” middleweight remains confident. He believes he can pose a significant challenge to Israel Adesanya and regain his position as a title threat.

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The former champion expressed his eagerness for a potential bout against Adesanya. Weidman emphasized his accomplishments in the middleweight division, stating, “Besides Israel Adesanya, no one has achieved what I have in terms of title defenses and more”. He believes that his unique skill set makes him a difficult opponent for Adesanya. But he acknowledges the need to prove it in the cage.

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Weidman acknowledges the struggles he has faced recently. With a record of 2-6 over the past seven years, all losses came by knockout or technical knockout. However, he gained some confidence and sharpened his skills through a grappling match under the Polaris banner in March.

Related: “Black outside, China inside” – When Nigerian Israel Adesanya ‘identified’ as Chinese man ahead of important kickboxing fight

Chris Weidman against Israel Adesanya in the Octagon

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Chris Weidman wants bout with Israel Adesanya in the octagon to reclaim his former title ( Image source: Getty Images )

The upcoming fight against Tavares holds immense significance for Weidman. He aims to demonstrate his resilience and reclaim his status as a force to reckon with in the middleweight division.

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Born and raised in Baldwin, New York, Chris Weidman showcased his wrestling prowess from a young age, excelling in the sport. Transitioning to MMA, he achieved a remarkable feat by dethroning Anderson Silva and becoming the UFC middleweight champion in 2013. Weidman’s wrestling background has been instrumental in his fighting style, enabling him to dominate opponents with his exceptional grappling and ground control abilities.

Israel Adesanya, originating from Lagos, Nigeria, has emerged as a rising star in the world of MMA. Starting his combat sports journey in kickboxing and boxing, Adesanya later transitioned to MMA. Renowned for his striking finesse, he earned the moniker “The Last Stylebender.” Adesanya claimed the UFC middleweight title in 2019 and has successfully defended it multiple times, solidifying his reputation as one of the division’s most formidable fighters. Surly the two fighters clashing in the octagon will be a fight worth watching.

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