Nassourdine Imavov delivered a stunning knockout victory over former UFC champion Israel Adesanya in the second round, establishing himself as a contender in the title race leading up to the upcoming bout between current champion Dricus Du Plessis and challenger Sean Strickland.
The 30-year-old French fighter, known as “The Sniper,” showcased his precision and speed by landing a powerful right-hand punch early in the second round, ultimately sealing the fate of the fight.
Adesanya, fighting in a non-title match for the first time since February 2019, was seeking to rejuvenate his quest for the championship after facing setbacks in his recent title challenges. Despite reclaiming the belt from Alex Pereira in a rematch, Adesanya suffered defeats to Strickland and Du Plessis in his last two fights.
Beginning the fight impressively with strong body kicks and clever feints, Adesanya was in control until Imavov’s decisive blow shifted the momentum. The fight came to an end as Imavov unleashed a series of strikes on his stumbling opponent, prompting the referee to stop the fight and declare Imavov the winner by knockout.
“I have been saying all week that I was in peak condition,” Imavov stated through an interpreter. “I have proven tonight that I am the superior striker. My ultimate goal now is to compete for the championship.”
In the co-main event, England’s Michael “Venom” Page secured a unanimous decision victory over Shara Magomedov, handing the Russian middleweight his first professional MMA defeat. Page utilized his unpredictable striking to outmaneuver and outscore his opponent in a tactical battle.
