Israel Adesanya insists he is ready to face anyone after accepting that his long-desired rematch with Sean Strickland will not happen.
The former middleweight champion has endured a difficult run since reclaiming his belt with a knockout of Alex Pereira, suffering consecutive defeats to Strickland, Dricus du Plessis, and most recently Nassourdine Imavov. Despite speculation about retirement, Adesanya has remained determined to return.
Earlier this year, he repeatedly called for a second fight with Strickland, who shocked the world by dethroning him at UFC 293. But with Strickland suspended following a separate incident and showing no interest in a rematch, Adesanya has shifted focus.
“I’ve moved on. I just want to fight,” he told Submission Radio. “I’m staying ready for any and everyone.”
Though no longer in the title picture, Adesanya continues to watch the division closely. He believes Imavov, fresh off a win over Caio Borralho, could pose problems for champion Khamzat Chimaev.
“If he can take away the wrestling from Khamzat, he’ll give him problems,” Adesanya said. “That’s all you have to do. Khamzat can strike, but his wrestling is his main weapon. If Nassourdine gets past that, he’ll be dangerous.”
For now, Adesanya is keeping his options open, eager for a return to the Octagon after two years without a victory.
