UFC Explains Why Israel Adesanya, Strickland’s Rematch Can’t Work

UFC President Dana White has cast doubt on the proposed title rematch between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland.

Recall that Strickland stunned the world when he defeated Israel Adesanya, a Nigerian-born Australian UFC star in August to take over his middleweight title.

After the bout, Adesanya was supposed to have a rematch with Strickland almost immediately, but that might not be the case now.

White addressed the media at the Contender Series press conference on Wednesday, stressing that another rising contender in the weight class may force his way into contention.

“I mean, that fight (between Strickland and Adesanya) just happened. A couple of fights are going to play out here now over the next month or so and then we’ll go from there and figure out what’s next,” he said.

“Whatever the best fight to make when all is said and done, and who’s injured, who’s not injured, who can go, what time, where, you know? There’s a lot of different factors that play into what we’re going to do next.”

In the UFC middleweight division, several top athletes are vying for the next chance to capture the title. Dricus du Plessis is the undisputed champion after prevailing over each of his six opponents inside the octagon.

This year, Du Plessis was supposed to square off against Israel Adesanya in the ring, but when he withdrew due to an injury, Strickland took his place.

The South African could now overtake other competitors and have a chance to face Strickland, the new champion of the division.

Additionally, some important games planned for later this year may have a considerable influence on how the division evolves. Roman Dolidze and No. 4 ranked Jared Cannonier will fight in the octagon on December 2.

Later this month, Khamzat Chimaev will fight Paulo Costa in his return to the middleweight class. Chimaev, who intends to win UFC 294 on October 21 to have a shot at the title, has already called out the reigning champion.