Following Sean Strickland‘s title win at UFC 293, some critics have reevaluated former champion Israel Adesanya‘s career and legacy, with UFC commentator Jon Anik agreeing that despite Adesanya’s immense contribution to the sport, losing two out of his last three fights poses a significant setback.
Sean Strickland’s title win at UFC 293 has drawn mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike. However, the focus has significantly been on former champion Israel Adesanya’s loss and the implications it has for his career. Questions have been raised about Adesanya’s overall resume and legacy, particularly following his recent performance. Anik, the UFC play-by-play voice, credits some of these reactions to a series of losses that Adesanya has suffered which could potentially open him up to criticism. Anik, however, asserts that this setback doesn’t undermine Adesanya’s capabilities and that the champion could make a possible comeback.
The critics also questioned the role of Eugene Bareman, Adesanya’s head coach. Despite the detrimental comments targeted at Bareman, Anik holds the coach in high regard, praising him for his proven track record in the world of UFC. He also commends Bareman’s exemplary role in shaping Adesanya’s middleweight legacy. Anik sees both Bareman and Adesanya as first-ballot MMA Hall of Famers. In his view, it’s not so much about the coach as it is about Adesanya.
Anik also commented on Adesanya’s immediate future, including the possibility of when and where he might fight again. He maintained that a loss for Adesanya is a setback for his legacy and thus doesn’t see him having an immediate rematch. Notwithstanding the critics’ views, Anik believes that Adesanya is one of the greatest middleweight champions of all time, and despite this setback, he has the capacity to forge a successful path forward. Anik urges Adesanya to take time to reflect on his career and the high-frequency fight schedule that has characterized his time as a champion so far.
Post the UFC 293 fight, Adesanya acknowledged the defeat to the better man, Strickland, during the press conference. As for Adesanya’s future, UFC CEO Dana White has expressed interest in a rematch. Meanwhile, Anik wouldn’t be surprised if Adesanya takes some time off after competing in eight championship fights over a three-year span. He also indicated the possibility of Adesanya reentering a championship fight upon his return, even if the title is defended in his absence.