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Top 5 Greatest Of All Time

By “Immortal” decree, all fans should make room in the Top 5 of their greatest of all time (GOAT) lists for reigning UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.
“The Last Stylebender” reclaimed his 185-pound crown by stopping longtime kickboxing rival Alex Pereira in the UFC 287 pay-per-view (PPV) main event last weekend in Miami, a victory good enough to place him atop the promotion’s Mount Olympus.
That’s according to UFC welterweight smasher Matt Brown.

“I felt like this fight he just threw that out the window and said ‘I’m not wrestling you, we’re doing a kickboxing match and I’m f****** you up,’” Brown told MMA Fighting. “I commend him for that. That took balls for him to do that. That took courage. That took bravery. That took all the things that qualify a champion like Adesanya and I think you’ve got to start putting him in the top five GOAT list now. It’s not like I’m basing this off one fight. Look at the guys he’s beat before. He’s got a f****** resume. He’s just spectacular. It’s f****** amazing what he’s doing. I’ll just leave it at that.”
The 33 year-old Adesanya (24-2) is 4-1 across his last five middleweight title fights but his knockout of “Poatan” stands as the only finish during that span. Prior to that run, “The Last Stylebender” was outmuscled en route to a decision loss against then-light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz.

“If we want to compare with other GOATs that we always talk about, GSP had a very unexciting career as a champion,” Brown continued. “We simply put him up there for his wins, his amount of wins and not losing rounds. This fight just hit me a different way. Maybe I’m a little bit biased right now because it just happened this weekend and still a little bit high from it. It definitely gave me a buzz watching that and Adesanya just the way he did it, I think that’s an extremely special person to be able to do that.”
St-Pierre (26-2), a former two-division champion, retired from UFC in late 2017.

UFC 287 post-fight show: Reaction to Israel Adesanya’s revenge knockout, Jorge Masvidal retirement

Israel Adesanya put an exclamation point on his first victory against longtime nemesis Alex Pereira as he regained the UFC middleweight title with an absolutely vicious knockout to cap off UFC 287 in Miami.
Following the event, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Adesanya’s incredible finish, his post-fight speech, if going right back to another matchup is the way to go, Dana White suggesting Pereira may move to 205, and more. Additionally, they discuss Gilbert Burns’ win over Jorge Masvidal in the co-main event, Masvidal announcing his retirement, and what could be next for Burns, Rob Font’s sensational finish of Adrian Yanez, 18-year-old Raul Rosas Jr. suffering his first career loss to Christian Rodriguez, and more.
Watch the UFC 287 post-fight show above, or an audio-only version of the show can also be streamed below and on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and wherever else you get your pods.

UFC 287 Results: Pereira vs. Adesanya 2

MMA Fighting will have UFC 287 results for the Pereira vs. Adesanya 2 event, live blogs for all the main card fights, and more from the Miami-Dade Arena in Miami, Fla., on Saturday night.
In the main event, UFC middleweight champion Alex Pereira will square off against former UFC champion Israel Adesanya in a rematch. Pereira defeated Adesanya via fifth-round TKO at UFC 281 this past November.
Gilbert Burns will square off against Jorge Masvidal in a welterweight contest in the co-main event. Burns has won three of his past five fights, while Masvidal has lost three straight fights.
Check out UFC 287 results below.

Main Card
Israel Adesanya def. Alex Pereira via second-round KO (4:21) (live blog) | Highlights | Reax
Gilbert Burns def. Jorge Masvidal via unanimous decision (live blog) | Highlights | Reax
Rob Font def. Adrian Yanez via first-round TKO (2:57) (live blog)
Kevin Holland def. Santiago Ponzinibbio via third-round KO (3:16) (live blog)
Christian Rodriguez def. Raul Rosas Jr. via UD (29-28 x3) (live blog) | Reax
Preliminary Card
Kelvin Gastelum def. Chris Curtis via unanimous decision (29-28 x2, 30-27)
Luana Pinheiro def. Michelle Waterson-Gomez via split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)
Joe Pyfer def. Gerald Meerschaert via first-round TKO (3:15) | Watch finish
Lupita Godinez def. Cynthia Calvillo via split decision (29-28, 30-27, 28-29)
Ignacio Bahamondes def. Trey Ogden via unanimous decision (30-27 x2, 29-28)
Steve Garcia def. Shayilan Nuerdanbieke via second-round KO (0:36) | Watch finish
Sam Hughes def. Jaqueline Amorim via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Note: Karl Williams vs. Chase Sherman – fight canceled

UFC 287: Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya 2 live stream watch party

MMA Fighting has a live stream watch party for Saturday’s UFC 287 event, which takes place at Miami-Dade Arena in Miami, Fla. The main event will feature a rematch for the middleweight title as Alex Pereira defends his championship for the first time against the man he dethroned at UFC 281 this past November, Israel Adesnaya.
Join MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and Conner Burks, and other special guests such as Jed Meshew and Eric “New York Ric” Jackman, to watch along with UFC 287 as the main card happens.
In the co-main event, Gilbert Burns looks to spoil the homecoming party for Miami’s own Jorge Masvidal in a pivotal welterweight showdown.
UFC 287 also features a bantamweight matchup between Rob Font and surging contender Adrian Yanez, along with a 170-pound matchup between Kevin Holland and Santiago Ponzinibbio.
Kicking off the main card will be the second octagon appearance of 18-year-old Raul Rosas Jr. as he takes on Christian Rodriguez.
Watch MMA Fighting’s UFC 286 Watch Party at 9:45 p.m. ET / 6:45 p.m. PT above.

UFC 287 bonuses: Israel Adesanya cashes in with massive rematch knockout, Kelvin Gastelum returns to earn Fight of the Night

Israel Adesanya is back atop the middleweight mountain and back on the bonus list.
“The Last Stylebender” earned a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus with his stunning knockout of Alex Pereira in Saturday’s UFC 287 main event, a victory that not only won him back the UFC title but avenged his first loss inside the octagon. This was also Adesanya’s first win over Pereira after losing to him in their first MMA fight and two previous kickboxing encounters.
After a competitive first round, Adesanya caught an advancing Pereira with two hard right hands that put “Poatan” down on the mat for good. Adesanya scored a knockout win for the first time since defeating Paulo Costa at UFC 253 in September 2020, which is also the last time he received a post-fight bonus.
The other Performance of the Night award went to Rob Font, who scored a first-round TKO of Adrian Yanez to hand the fast-rising Yanez his first UFC loss.

Related

Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira 2 full fight video highlights

UFC 287 in Tweets: Fighters react to Israel Adesanya’s revenge knockout of Alex Pereira

Kelvin Gastelum and Chris Curtis won the UFC 287 Fight of the Night award for their thrilling three-round striking battle, which closed out the preliminary portion of the card. Returning from a hiatus of almost 600 days, Gastelum outworked Curtis to earn a unanimous decision and the fourth Fight of the Night bonus of his UFC career.

UFC 287 results: Jorge Masvidal announces his retirement after losing unanimous decision to Gilbert Burns

Gilbert Burns earned another impressive win at UFC 287 in a fight that will ultimately serve as the final appearance for Jorge Masvidal.
After losing a unanimous decision in the co-main event, Masvidal announced his retirement from the sport while telling Burns “go get that belt” as they embraced following a three-round battle.
“I love everybody here,” Masvidal shouted to the Miami faithful. “This is where I started my career, it’s been a long 20 years, 50 some fights. Sometimes your favorite basketball player don’t have that 3-pointer no more. Your favorite quarterback loses that rifle. I don’t feel the same when I get in here no more. It’s been 20 long years.
“I love this f****** sport. I’m a multi-millionaire. I didn’t start with nothing. I can say I’m good for life now.”
While Masvidal was saying goodbye, Burns was celebrating a victory with the judges scoring the fight 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28 in his favor. Afterwards, Burns paid homage to his opponent and then quickly turned his attention to the welterweight title.
“It feels good but shout out to this guy, he’s still a king from this city,” Burns said. “We’re just here because of this guy. Give it up to your boy, ‘Gamebred’ Masvidal.
“I’m the only guy maybe in the whole UFC that’s willing to fight anyone at any time. With that being said, Leon Edwards, Colby Covington, whoever is holding that belt, I’m coming for you!”
There was a lot of respect being shown early with Burns and Masvidal both waiting for the other to make a mistake to really unleash. Masvidal did start to establish a well-timed leg kick that was chopping away at Burns’ foundation.
As time ticked away in the opening round, Burns started to find a home for his overhand right that cracked Masvidal several times. Burns also managed a late takedown and several nasty hammer fists on the ground just before the horn sounded.
Burns continued throwing that right hand — this time with a stinging uppercut — that dropped Masvidal to the canvas for a split second. As soon as Masvidal got back to the feet, Burns rushed forward before picking him up and slamming him back down to the ground again.
Masvidal was content maintaining his guard while Burns was trying to find room to throw punches as the Miami crowd started to grow restless. When Masvidal finally scrambled to try and break free, Burns was quick to toss him back down again.
With five minutes remaining, Burns started to establish a slick lead with his left and then he followed it with that same powerful right that continuously hurt Masvidal all fight long. Several right hands in succession had Masvidal backed against the cage as Burns continued to tee off on him.
Burns then turned back to his grappling as he took Masvidal down again while throwing short, punishing elbows and punches. As time expired, Burns was all smiles and Masvidal immediately started pulling off his gloves to signify this would be his final fight.
With Leon Edwards expected to battle Colby Covington next, Burns made a compelling case as the next No. 1 contender, although Belal Muhammad might have something to say about that. Perhaps they’ll meet in the future but for now Burns can enjoy his second straight win while serving as the final opponent in Masvidal’s career.

‘Looks like Jorge didn’t train very hard for this one‘: Fighters react to Jorge Masvidal’s loss, retirement at UFC 287

Gilbert Burns handed Jorge Masvidal his fourth straight UFC loss in front of his hometown crowd at UFC 287.
Burns took home a unanimous decision via scores of 30-27 twice and 29-28 on Saturday night, outstriking Masvidal on the feet and completing takedowns to rack up control time.
At one point, Masvidal looked a punch or two away from being finished in the third round. He survived, but Burns managed to get another takedown and control the action.
Here’s what fighters had to say about Burns vs. Masvidal on Saturday at UFC 287.

Easy 30-27 for Gilbert Burns, looks like Jorge didn’t train very hard for this one.— Funky (@Benaskren) April 9, 2023

Who had Jorge leading a “let’s go Brandon” chant tonight . What the— Funky (@Benaskren) April 9, 2023

Nothing fancy from Burns. Just persistence, pressure & consistency. Masvidal just couldn’t figure it out. Reaction time isn’t what it used to be but great to see him succeed in this sport after grinding for so long. Burns moves up the ladder again & gets closer to a title shot.— Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) April 9, 2023

Mannnn! Another one gone from the fight game!! another one of my all time favorite fighters! Father Time catches up to all of us. Shout out to Jorge Masvidal! A real OG of the fight game! You will be missed!! #UFC287— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) April 9, 2023

Great career by Masvidal, was great having him on our Podcast. And like him or not, but says what he believes. #UFC287— Teddy Atlas (@TeddyAtlasReal) April 9, 2023

If that was the last time we saw @GamebredFighter …what a dream he created with his two bare hands. What a pleasure to watch all these years. #ufc287— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) April 9, 2023

Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira 2 full fight video highlights

Watch Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira 2 full fight video highlights from the main event of UFC 287, courtesy of the UFC and other outlets.
UFC 287: Pereira vs. Adesanya 2 took place April 8 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Fla. UFC middleweight champion Alex Pereira (7-2) faced off against former champion Israel Adesanya (24-2) for the second time in MMA and fourth time overall in combat sports the night’s main event, which aired live on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
Watch the video highlights below.

For more on Adesanya vs. Pereira 2, check out the live blog by MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew.

Round 1: Israel is talking to himself before the round even starts. Then it does and both are out in orthodox. And just like last time, it’s Alex in the middle, with Israel moving around.
Israel and Alex exchange some low kicks and feel things out. They know each other well at this point. And more kicks both ways.
Adesanya trying to take the initiative but Pereira not giving in lightly. And both land low kicks again. 90 seconds has elapsed and not a ton has happened.
Adesanya fakes low and goes high but no joy. Pereira pushing Adesanya back now. And low kicks. Both sides. Adesanya doing a better job of taking the center though. Not giving ground like last fight.
Pereira hasn’t punched yet, I don’t think. He’s being very patient. Now he jabs the body and lands a low kick. Adesanya now on the back foot again. Feinting from both men. Body kick from Adesanya.
90 seconds left and no man has done too much. Just touching each other. Pereira lands a couple low kicks. Adesanya goes to the body. Adesanya taking the initiative now but not throwing a lot with it. Pereira similarly conservative.
Pereira goes for a head kick that Adesanya weaves out of. Adesanya lands a left hand. Pereira moving forward with 30 seconds left. Neither man committing to anything, still. another low kick from Pereira. That has been landing a ton.
The round ends.
MMA Fighting scores the round 10-9 Pereira.
Round 2: That first round was a toss-up. I gave it to Pereira for the committed calf kicks, but seeing plenty of Adesanya scorecards, and those aren’t wrong.
Neither man pushed the pace, so they both look fresh. And Adesanya comes out and takes the center more aggressively now. Pereira was vocal in his corner, feels food about the leg kicks. And now he’s taking the center.
Adesanya tries a few kicks but no joy. Pereira glances a head kick that gets Adesanya backing up and Pereira HUNTING now. He is getting very aggressive. Has Adesanya backed up to the fence and finding shots. Adesanya keeps his eyes up and returns fire. And he’s able to work off after a few exchanges.
Now Adesanya taking the lead and lands a right hand, but Pereira lands one of his own. Head kick from Adesanya blocked. He’s still on the lead and Pereira is back to attacking those legs. And showing excellent defense.
Pereira backs Adesanya up with a jab as Adesanya got too frisky. Adesanya looking for a big right hand over the top. He’s really taking charge now. Coming forward and trying to find something. Eating calf kicks though.
Pace slowing some. Pereira starts to take in and Adesanya decides to try for a counter. .Lands a left hand but Pereira eats it well. And now Pereira is taking the center. Adesanya lands a good right hand to the body. He’s landed that a couple times. But eats a low kick.
Adesanya pushes Pereira back. He’s not freely giving ground which is good. But eats a counter. Pereira stalking late in the round and lands a low kick that buckles Adesanya’s left leg. Adesanya is in trouble. He’s up against the fence and another leg kick hurts him. Pereira hunting and ADESANYA CATCHES HIM!!!!! PEREIRA IS HURT AND ADESANYA SLEEPS HIM!!!!!!!!!!
OH MY GOD
Israel Adesanya def. Alex Pereira by knockout (punches) at 4:21 of Round 2.

UFC 287 post-fight press conference video

The UFC 287 post-fight press conference is the last piece of business to take care of after the action is over in the octagon, and we have the live video below at MMAFighting.com.
UFC officials will announce the winners of the “Fight of the Night” and the “Performance of the Night” bonuses, and winning fighters will meet the media after their fights.
The UFC 287 post-fight press conference takes place about 30 minutes after the main event ends, meaning it will start around 1:30 a.m. ET.

UFC 287 in Tweets: Fighters react to Israel Adesanya’s revenge knockout of Alex Pereira

Israel Adesanya avenged his UFC title loss to Alex Pereira in the biggest way possible, stopping the Brazilian champ to reclaim the belt at UFC 287.
Adesanya played possum against the fence, taking hard shots to the body against Pereira, before he snuck in a pair of right hands that sent his three-time foe to the canvas, out cold.
The win came just five months after Adesanya was stopped in the fifth round of a fight he was winning against Pereira, who twice beat him in the kickboxing ring.
Here’s what fighters had to say about the UFC 287 main card including Adesanya’s win over Pereira.

Congratulations on a successful rematch, @stylebender. If you want to try another one, you know where to find me. This time at middleweight for your belt. #UFC287— Jan Blachowicz (@JanBlachowicz) April 9, 2023

Sheeeeeesh!!!! Statement made to reclaim the crown!! #UFC287— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) April 9, 2023

Ohhhhhh emmmmmm geeeee— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) April 9, 2023

damn Periera was fighting really good and got a bit careless. Damn!— Funky (@Benaskren) April 9, 2023

Well at least I won’t have to see that stupid ass highlight again now — Funky (@Benaskren) April 9, 2023

That Font uppercut! Jeeeez! Changed the entire tempo quick, man! Yanez was landing some slick shots too. Damn. This division is insane! #UFC287— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) April 9, 2023

Young guys having a tough time with the vets tn— Chris Weidman (@chrisweidman) April 9, 2023

Wow !! Font lifted him off the canvas with that shot ! #ufc287— Chris Weidman (@chrisweidman) April 9, 2023

Wowwwwww!!! I was not expecting that! Got damn! #UFC287— Vince Morales (@vandetta135) April 9, 2023

Clean shot !!!— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) April 9, 2023

Big win for Holland! That left hook came from the hips. Very hard to see that punch! #UFC287— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) April 9, 2023

Fighting that soon after hand surgery on a severe break and getting the W like that…. @Trailblaze2top is not human!!! So tough #UFC287— Wonderboy (@WonderboyMMA) April 9, 2023

I heard Holland came into this fight with a broken right hand #ufc287— Cub Swanson (@CubSwanson) April 9, 2023

Unfortunately he lost this time his beauty didn’t save him .Anyway, I think he’ll come back better. He/ very young n has a lot of time to compete or model and such . 2 shirts has gone . We have more 6 free giveaways https://t.co/nyKSOLp8Jf pic.twitter.com/yAwzVFJ4ig— Paulo Costa ( Borrachinha ) (@BorrachinhaMMA) April 9, 2023