Israel Adesanya, the renowned 35-year-old Nigerian-born and New Zealand-raised mixed martial artist, is set to face off against Nassourdine Imavov, a formidable 29-year-old French fighter, in an eagerly anticipated bout at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 1, 2024. This fight marks a significant moment in both fighters' careers as Adesanya seeks to reclaim his dominance following recent setbacks, while Imavov eyes a defining victory against a legendary opponent.
Adesanya has made a name for himself in the mixed martial arts (MMA) world with an impressive record of 24 wins and 4 losses in 28 fights. Before transitioning to MMA in 2012, Adesanya was an accomplished kickboxer. Since signing with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in December 2017, he has become a two-time UFC middleweight champion. However, Adesanya finds himself riding his first two-fight losing skid in the UFC, having faced a fourth-round defeat to current UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia.
The upcoming fight against Imavov will be Adesanya's first non-UFC title fight in six years. Despite the pressure of recent losses, Adesanya remains confident in his ability to rise to the occasion.
“Definitely, the pressure’s on him (Imamov). But again, I always put pressure on myself when I get there because I’m Israel Adesanya. There’s always that pressure, but he’s going to have to be the one rising to the occasion – if he has it in him. I have it in me to stop him.” – Israel Adesanya
In contrast, Nassourdine Imavov is basking in the momentum of a three-fight unbeaten streak. Born in Dagestan, Russia, and raised in Salon-de-Provence, France, Imavov began his professional MMA career in 2016. Since then, he has amassed a record of 15 wins and 4 losses in 20 fights. Currently ranked fifth in the highly competitive UFC middleweight division, Imavov has recently secured impressive victories over Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier, and Brendan Allen.
For Imavov, the fight against Adesanya represents a momentous opportunity to cement his status among the elite fighters of the division.
“It’s a huge fight (against Adesanya). I was so happy when they announced the fight. It’s the fight I have been looking for since I moved to the UFC. Israel Adesanya is a legend and I am so happy to fight against him.” – Nassourdine Imavov
The showdown in Riyadh promises to be a captivating contest between two fighters with distinct styles and storied backgrounds. While Adesanya's striking prowess and experience will be key factors in the bout, Imavov's recent form and hunger for victory make him a formidable challenger. The stakes are high as both fighters aim to prove their mettle on one of MMA's grand stages.
