The Biggest fight in Oceania history took place last night in Melbourne, Australia. It pitted MW Champion Robert Whittaker vs Interim MW Champion Israel Adesanya. It was hyped for weeks and weeks leading up to the fight. It took not only the MMA World by storm but Main-stream media even got in on it. Not only did that help, but it boosted the fight more as more eyes where on this fight then any other this year. A Sold out Marvel Stadium, Media coverage from all angles and the World watching, it was time to finally settle it once and for all. Could Robert Whittaker defend his title and shut up all the doubters and prove to everyone he is the rightful MW Champion? Will Israel Adesanya unify both titles and stake his claim as the New King of the Middleweights and propel himself into Superstardom? How to get everyone hyped before the fight even started, Israel got us covered as he performed a dance routine with his friends entering the arena. Not only is Izzy a Great fighter, he's a born entertainer. One of the best walkouts of all time. Whittaker followed and that's when the crowd really came to life, cheering on the Homeland hero as he made his way to the octagon. As it all settled down and the fighters got their introduction by Bruce Buffer, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Oh God!! This is it! We where about to see Whittaker vs Adesanya.
*Now I'm going to admit this straight away, I was shaking through this entire fight, my nerves where shot and I was silent throughout the whole fight. This fight was THAT fight for me. So much on the line and So much to gain for both fighter with a win. I stood and watched everything, shaking with nerves, that's what MMA means to me. I'm invested in it, all the way.* Round one started off fast as Whittaker came in straight away with a oblique kick to Israel, straight away attacking Israel's main weapons. Both fighters looked cool and calm in the first few mins, Israel keeping at bay, while Whittaker was going in full charge. I noticed immediately Whittaker was going for the kill-shot, aiming high with his left's and right's but exposing himself to Israel's counters, which landed. Israel stood tall remained calm using his reach advantage with his kicks and Punches, clipping Whittaker a few times. At the end of the round, just as we think the first round was over, Israel drops Whittaker with a second to go in the round, The buzzer just went when Israel was standing above Whittaker about to finish. Whittaker was saved by the bell.
Round Two kicked off with the same way, Whittaker coming out but more hesitation then round one but still looking for the Kill-shot going high with his attacks. Towards the middle of the round Both fighters threw everything at each other, and at one point, it looked like Whittaker stunned Israel but it was on the final shot Israel Caught Whittaker right on the chin, sending the Champ to the canvas. With only one follow up punch landed,the ref had seen enough and waved off the fight. Israel Adesanya is now the new King of The Middleweights.
Seeing Whittaker lose like that Stung, not going to lie, it was a heartbreaking moment seeing him go out like that, but as the saying goes "The Better Man Won". Whittaker is a fighter's fighter and a huge fan favourite with the fans. He was gracious in defeat and didn't come up with any excuse's, Which what makes him such a important figure in MMA. Their are not many characters like that left in MMA and Whittaker is all of it and more. He will be back and I know for sure will be fighting for the title again. What's Next for Israel? Well A huge celebration of course, as he is now a Global Superstar with that performance and winning the title. Who knew within Two years (Yes only Two) Would Israel Adesanya go from prospect to Champion without a single loss. He improves his record to 7-0 in the UFC. There Is already talks of Israel vs Paulo Costa next, which is exactly what Costa wanted after becoming the no.1 Contender. I can see that fight happening early 2020.
Exciting times ahead for Israel Adesanya as he has now opened up more doors for himself winning the title. I can not doubt his greatness as he has proved time and time again he is the real deal.
Congratulations Israel Adesanya.
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