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Israel Adesanya looks to regain the UFC middleweight title from Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 on Sunday morning, in what is the fourth clash between the long-time rivals.
Pereira outpointed Adesanya and knocked out the Nigerian-New Zealander across two kickboxing bouts, before the pair transitioned to MMA. Adesanya was the first to make the move, going on to reign as a dominant UFC champion until he lost his belt to Pereira in their first MMA meeting, five months ago. Brazilian Pereira, a relative newcomer to MMA, fought from behind to secure a TKO of Adesanya in the final round in November, and today’s main event in Miami marks the new champion’s first title defence.
ROUND ONE
Stylebender with a solid left cross
Lots of low kicks from both men early on. Adesanya looks to get behind the jab, standing southpaw at the moment.
This has been a cagey start. Adesanya just about leans back to avoid a head kick, before landing a jab. A right cross is just out of range for the challenger.
The next effort is better from Adesanya, but Pereira responds with more leg kicks.
Adesanya kicks low and hard again, then targets the body with a kick. He repeats the same sequence now.
Adesanya with a solid left cross, but Pereira plays it down. Another leg kick from the Brazilian.
ROUND TWO
It’s over! Stylebender knocks Pereira out!!
Pereira just leans back far enough to avoid a head kick. He hops towards Adesanya and narrowly misses with a right hook.
Adesanya is being stalked here. His left leg buckles after a low kick from the champion!
Now Pereira unloads punches to the body! Is Adesanya in trouble?!
NO! HE KNOCKS PEREIRA OUT COLD WITH A STRAIGHT SHOT!
