Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is irked by a challenge from rising star Shara Magomedov following the latter’s spectacular knockout victory at UFC 308 at the Etihad Arena.
Magomedov, who maintained his unbeaten record (15-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC) with a sensational second-round TKO against Armen Petrosyan, expressed his desire to face the Nigerian-born New Zealander, whom he had previously chased during their kickboxing days in China.
“I used to chase Israel when he fought kickboxing in China. I was fighting kickboxing in China too. Now that he switched to MMA, and now that I’m here, I’m ready to fight him. I beat his friend and sparring partner, Blood Diamond, in China, and I was ready to fight him. I’m in no rush,” Magomedov said.
Adesanya, who was doing a live stream watch-along of UFC 308, responded to the call-out with a meme-inspired retort, saying, “Keep my name out of your f**king mouth,” while chuckling.
The ‘Stylebender’ is currently experiencing his first career slump, having lost his last two fights. He surrendered his title to Sean Strickland 13 months ago and suffered another defeat to new champion Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305 in August.
Magomedov, who earned a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus for his victory, executed a remarkable spinning backfist combination that left Petrosyan unconscious, showcasing the emerging talent in the middleweight division.
Despite his impressive performance, industry observers believe Magomedov might need to face other contenders like Michel Pereira or Kevin Holland before securing a fight with the former champion.
The Russian fighter from Team GOR MMA maintains he is not rushing for a title shot, instead focusing on securing a bout with Adesanya, who has become his primary target in the middleweight division.