Sean Strickland emerged victorious over Israel Adesanya, securing the title of the new UFC middleweight champion. The fight took place at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, and all judges unanimously scored the bout in favor of Strickland.

The fight, which lasted for the full five rounds, featured a notable moment in the first round when Strickland knocked down his opponent. Strickland, the American fighter, achieved this victory through relentless pressure and consistent upright boxing, avoiding any attempts at grappling.

Unfortunately, this defeat marks a setback for Israel Adesanya, the Nigerian-born fighter, as he found himself on the defensive for the entire UFC 293 clash. This loss represents his third in his career, bringing his record to 24 wins and 3 losses. In contrast, Sean Strickland’s victory improves his record to 28 wins and 5 losses.

ROUND ONE: Strickland drops Adesanya!

Both fighters are in orthodox stances. Strickland moves aggressively forward, and Adesanya connects with a kick to the body. Strickland maintains his pressure, and the champion manages to land another body kick, although it only grazes Strickland, all while being kept near the fence. Strickland also attempts a low kick.

A right-hand punch from Strickland finds its mark, but Adesanya quickly counters. There’s a massive right-hand strike from Strickland that sends Adesanya tumbling! Adesanya is in serious trouble and turns his back to Strickland, who continues to land powerful right-hand blows.

This round unquestionably belongs to the challenger.

ROUND TWO: Scores tied!

Strickland displayed a strong desire to secure a finish in the previous round, pushing aggressively. He demonstrated impressive accuracy with his ground and pound as well as his strikes after Adesanya had gotten back on his feet. However, the American couldn’t quite land that decisive blow to end the fight early.

In this second round, Adesanya continues to be on the defensive, but he appears to be holding his ground. He’s focused on remaining composed.

Adesanya delivers a cross to Strickland’s body. Overall, Strickland is doing a good job of managing the distance, moving in to attack while being cautious not to get too close to Adesanya, who poses a threat up close.

Towards the end of the round, Adesanya connects with a jab and follows it up with a leg kick. Strickland responds with a solid counter. Then, Adesanya lands a powerful overhand right.

As the round nears its conclusion, Strickland brushes Adesanya with a right hook.

Adesanya evens the score in this round.

(10-9 Adesanya, 19-19)

ROUND THREE: Strickland takes round three!

Strickland maintains his forward movement. Adesanya attempts a front kick to the body, but it doesn’t connect cleanly.

Now Adesanya takes the initiative, increasing his use of jabs and kicks. Strickland, however, defends well and blocks most of Adesanya’s attacks.

Adesanya lands a solid right cross, and Strickland responds with a right hand of his own, which partially connects with the champion.

Adesanya goes for a low kick. Strickland delivers a powerful one-two combination. He also checks a leg kick and lands a jab.

The champion throws a right, and Strickland counters with a left hook. Strickland connects with a short jab as well. It’s a close round, but Strickland manages to land some clean shots towards the end, which gives him the edge.

(10-9 Strickland, 29-28 Strickland)

ROUND FOUR: No clear winner!

Adesanya’s jab snaps back Strickland’s head, followed by a body kick, narrowly avoiding a hook from Strickland.

Adesanya attempts a hook of his own, but it misses the target.

Once more, Adesanya’s attack falls short, and he gets hit by a powerful left hook from Strickland. Strickland then connects with a one-two combination.

Adesanya delivers a resounding body kick, and he counters effectively with a jab. However, Strickland lands a solid punch on Adesanya once more.

It’s an extremely close round, and both fighters could be even as they head into the final round.

ROUND FIVE: AND NEW! Strickland defeats Adesanya via unanimous decision

Adesanya surrenders his title to Strickland!

Strickland effectively counters a low kick and follows it up with a quick front kick. He manages to block a head kick, but Adesanya lands a solid body kick.

The challenger, Strickland, maintains his forward pressure.

Adesanya retaliates with a powerful low kick, and Strickland responds with a jab and a well-placed right cross.

Strickland seems to be engaging in conversation with Adesanya now.

As the bell rings, Strickland’s coach carries him around the ring. Strickland is on the verge of tears.

AND NEW!

Strickland is emotional as he’s declared the unanimous winner! Adesanya applauds him and shows his respect, possibly putting their past differences to rest.

This marks one of the biggest upsets in UFC history.