Two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya says he is fully focused on his upcoming bout against Nassourdine Imavov while backing Francis Ngannou to defeat Deontay Wilder in their rumoured boxing clash, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Speaking to Stake.com, Adesanya expressed confidence in former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou’s ability to overcome Wilder, should the bout materialise.
“Francis Ngannou and Deontay Wilder certainly still have the tools to be in the ring together. People forget in this TikTok generation who Deontay Wilder is – who has one of the highest finishing rates in heavyweight boxing history and Francis Ngannou also became a star in the boxing world in just two fights,” Adesanya said.
The Nigerian-New Zealander, who is set to make his eagerly anticipated return to the octagon against France’s Imavov in Saudi Arabia next month, questioned Wilder’s mental state following recent setbacks.
“I would back my boy Francis to win this fight. It also depends where Deontay is at mentally. In one of his last interviews, he spoke about going to the jungle and doing Ayahuasca, so who knows where he is at,” he added.
The 35-year-old, known for his striking finesse and unorthodox fighting style, will be looking to bounce back from consecutive defeats, including his submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024.
Adesanya’s bout against Imavov will mark his first non-title fight since his victory over Anderson Silva in February 2019, as he aims to work his way back into title contention.
The bout, which will headline the UFC’s first-ever event in Saudi Arabia in February 2025, presents an opportunity for Adesanya to add another victory to his illustrious career that includes 24 wins and 16 knockout victories.
Regarding the upcoming middleweight title bout between Du Plessis and Sean Strickland, Adesanya predicted a more decisive victory for the champion.
“I think Dricus takes the cake. He’s a really good fighter and he is good at what he does. He’s already beat Strickland – even though he just edged it out, but I think he still won. I think this time it will be a bit more decisive,” he stated.
