If there’s anything consistent about Israel Adesanya, it’s his memory for holding grudges. The guy has a mental filing cabinet for beefs, just waiting to serve it cold to his foes.
The current UFC middleweight champ is notoriously sharp when it comes to avenging past slights, whether they stem from pre-fight banter or an opponent’s post-fight shenanigans. As Adesanya gears up for his upcoming face-off at UFC 293 in September, it seems he’s got an overflowing bucket of spite specifically reserved for Sean Strickland. This bad blood between the two can be traced back to an ill-tempered exchange they had at a press conference in July 2022.
Since locking in their fight date, Strickland has doubled down on his trash talk, criticizing the kind of champion Adesanya is, specifically targeting Adesanya’s penchant for nail painting. Guess what? Adesanya’s ears were wide open.
“He’s a complete fool,” Adesanya said during a chat with MMA Hook, sponsored by Stake.com. “There’s no way I’m losing to someone that obtuse. He claims he won’t be bested by a guy who enjoys anime or paints his nails. Well, guess what? I plan on entering that Octagon with my nails freshly painted, and I’ll be leaving it having knocked him flat.”
As the fighters prep for the showdown, all bets are heavily skewed in Adesanya’s favor. But don’t think that makes him complacent. Strickland being the huge underdog he is, carries the advantage of having little to lose, potentially throwing Adesanya off his game.
“I don’t heed public opinion,” Adesanya pointed out. “I listen to my crew and myself. The guy’s already irked me with his whole vibe. He’s trying too hard to get under my skin.”
The animosity isn’t just recent; Adesanya reveals that their previous encounters have also shaped his low opinion of Strickland. Despite Strickland’s theatrical demeanor when he’s on camera, Adesanya observes a stark difference in his persona backstage, accusing him of being fake. Adesanya is equally critical of Strickland’s reckless sparring sessions that often make their way into viral videos.
“He’s a gym warrior, but nothing more,” Adesanya added. “I can’t stand his antics, both in and out of the gym. He’s a two-faced individual who only amps up his act when he’s in front of an audience.”
All this drama is fueling Adesanya’s desire to put Strickland in his place, complete with a post-fight spectacle that will be one for the books.
“My vision is clear. I’m painting my nails, laying him out cold, and then flaunting my manicured fingers to the camera. And I plan to do all this while sporting some killer frosted tips,” Adesanya elaborated. “That image drives me. I’ve pulled out all the stops to make sure this vision turns into reality. This guy’s getting knocked out, no question about it.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Israel Adesanya vs Sean Strickland Feud
What is the article mainly about?
The article focuses on the upcoming UFC 293 fight between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. It delves into their history of trash talk, Strickland’s criticisms of Adesanya, and Adesanya’s plans to knock Strickland out while sporting painted nails.
Who are the main fighters involved?
The main fighters involved are Israel Adesanya, the current UFC Middleweight Champion, and Sean Strickland, a middleweight contender known for his outspokenness.
When is the fight scheduled to take place?
The fight is scheduled to take place in September at UFC 293.
What has been Sean Strickland’s criticism of Israel Adesanya?
Sean Strickland has criticized Adesanya for painting his nails and has questioned the “class of champion” Adesanya represents.
How does Israel Adesanya respond to Sean Strickland’s trash talk?
Adesanya refers to Strickland as a “complete fool” and vows to paint his nails and knock Strickland out during their fight. Adesanya also criticizes Strickland for his inauthenticity and reckless sparring sessions.
What is Adesanya’s motivation for the fight?
Adesanya is motivated by a vision of himself knocking out Strickland while sporting freshly painted nails and frosted tips. This vision drives him to do everything in his power to make it come true.
Who is the favorite to win the fight?
Israel Adesanya is the heavy favorite to win and successfully defend his middleweight title.
What are the stakes for Sean Strickland?
Being viewed as a massive underdog, Strickland essentially has nothing to lose, which allows him to be more daring in his approach to the fight.
How does Adesanya feel about Strickland’s antics outside the Octagon?
Adesanya has expressed his distaste for Strickland’s off-camera persona, calling him a “two-faced individual” who amps up his act only when in front of an audience.
What does Adesanya plan for the post-fight celebration?
Adesanya plans to flaunt his manicured, painted nails to the camera after knocking out Strickland, as part of his post-fight celebration.
More about Israel Adesanya vs Sean Strickland Feud
- UFC Official Fight Announcement for UFC 293
- MMA Hook’s Exclusive Interview with Israel Adesanya
- Sean Strickland’s Controversial Comments
- Israel Adesanya’s Career Highlights
- Sean Strickland’s Career Overview
- A Brief History of UFC Middleweight Championship
- What is Trash Talk in MMA?
- Guide to Understanding MMA Odds and Betting
- Previous Press Conference Encounter between Adesanya and Strickland
- Strickland’s Sparring Sessions Controversy
10 comments
LOL I never thought I’d be so into MMA. Gotta say, Adesanya painting his nails and kicking ass is a total mood.
OMG can’t wait for this fight. It’s like a movie plot but real life.
Who writes this stuff haha! “mental filing cabinet for beefs” Genius!
Gotta love how Adesanya calls out Strickland for bein fake. Its like a soap opera but with real punches.
Adesanyas already thinking bout the post-fight celebration? Guys, thats confidence right there!
Strickland’s got nuthin to lose, those kinda fighters are dangerous man. But i still think Adesanya’s gonna make sushi outta him lol.
Good article but cmon, we all kno Adesanya’s gonna school Strickland. dudes on a different level.
Interesting, but I’ll believe it when i see it. Trash talk’s cheap, let’s see some action.
You’re all underestimating Strickland, just wait. Upsets happen, people.
Man, Adesanya’s gonna make this one a spectacle for sure! painting nails and knockin out ppl? this dude knows how to entertain!