The rivalry between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira stands as one of the most compelling narratives in combat sports history. Their fourth encounter, and second in the UFC, at UFC 287 on April 8, 2023, was a pivotal moment that not only showcased Adesanya’s resilience but also earned him the prestigious “Knockout of the Year” award.
The Genesis of a Rivalry
The rivalry between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira is one of the rare sagas in combat sports that spans both kickboxing and MMA, blending personal vengeance with professional stakes.
It began in GLORY Kickboxing in 2016. Adesanya, a rising technician from New Zealand, faced Pereira, a powerful Brazilian striker known for his thunderous left hook. Pereira won their first bout by decision, handing Adesanya his first major loss. Their 2017 rematch ended more dramatically—Pereira knocked Adesanya out cold with a vicious left hook in the third round.
Adesanya then turned to MMA, rapidly rising through the UFC ranks to become Middleweight Champion, while Pereira continued dominating kickboxing, becoming a two-division GLORY champion.
In 2021, Pereira joined the UFC, reigniting the rivalry. At UFC 281, Pereira stunned Adesanya again, winning via fifth-round TKO to claim the UFC middleweight belt—his third victory over Adesanya across two combat sports.
With the score 3–0 in Pereira’s favor, the narrative seemed settled. But Adesanya wasn’t done. The rivalry, shaped by years of history and heartbreak, would reach its crescendo at UFC 287—where Adesanya sought not just victory, but redemption.
UFC 287: The Turning Point
UFC 287, held on April 8, 2023, in Miami, marked the long-awaited rematch between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira in the UFC octagon—this time with the middleweight title on the line. After suffering three consecutive losses to Pereira—twice in kickboxing and once in MMA—Adesanya entered the bout with not just the championship at stake, but his legacy and pride as well.
From the opening bell, the energy was electric. Pereira pressed forward, as expected, utilizing leg kicks and applying pressure with his imposing frame. Adesanya, however, looked composed, calculated, and determined. He didn’t allow the ghosts of the past to dictate the pace. Instead, he employed slick head movement, feints, and strategic counterstriking.
The fight exploded in the second round. As Pereira advanced aggressively, looking to trap Adesanya against the fence—the same strategy that led to his TKO win in UFC 281—Adesanya sprung the trap. With a perfectly timed right hand followed by a thunderous follow-up, Adesanya knocked Pereira out cold, delivering a decisive and symbolic ending to the rivalry.
The KO was not just a victory—it was a redemption arc completed. In that moment, Adesanya reclaimed his throne, silenced the doubters, and turned the rivalry on its head.
The Aftermath and Recognition
Following UFC 287, Israel Adesanya’s knockout victory over Alex Pereira sent shockwaves through the MMA world. It wasn’t just about reclaiming his Middleweight Championship—it was a moment of redemption after years of being haunted by Pereira’s dominance over him in both kickboxing and MMA. Adesanya’s win showcased his growth, resilience, and unwavering resolve, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest middleweights of all time.
For Pereira, the loss was humbling. After three straight wins over Adesanya, including capturing the UFC middleweight title, the knockout forced a reassessment of his game. However, Pereira took the loss gracefully and decided to move up to light heavyweight, aiming for another title in a new division.
Adesanya’s victory was praised as one of the most clinical finishes in UFC history, earning him global recognition. Fans worldwide, especially in New Zealand and among African fighters, celebrated his triumph as a testament to resilience and self-belief.
The win also shifted the Middleweight Division landscape. With new challengers like Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev awaiting, Adesanya’s reign was far from over. His win confirmed his place as a combat sports legend, resilient in the face of adversity.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Israel Adesanya’s legacy in MMA is firmly cemented following his redemption at UFC 287 against Alex Pereira. The victory not only reclaimed his Middleweight Championship, but also highlighted his resilience and evolution as a fighter. Known for his exceptional striking, precision, and footwork, Adesanya’s ability to blend kickboxing with MMA has influenced a generation of fighters. His undefeated streak at middleweight, coupled with his thrilling performances, solidifies his place among the greatest fighters of his era.
Beyond his accolades, Adesanya’s mental toughness and ability to overcome setbacks set him apart from his peers. His journey, from kickboxing to MMA, culminating in his UFC 287 win, showcases a remarkable arc that transcends the sport.
Looking forward, Adesanya’s future remains promising. With contenders like Robert Whittaker, Marvin Vettori, and rising stars like Khamzat Chimaev, his ability to maintain dominance in a competitive middleweight division will continue to shape his legacy. Whether he continues defending his title or explores new challenges, one thing is certain—Adesanya’s impact on combat sports will endure, driven by his resilience, skill, and the ability to shape his own narrative.
FAQs
What is the history between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira?
The rivalry between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira began in kickboxing under the GLORY banner. Pereira defeated Adesanya twice there, including one brutal knockout. When both transitioned to the UFC, Pereira defeated Adesanya again at UFC 281 in 2022 to win the middleweight title, extending his lead to 3-0 in combat sports. The rematch at UFC 287 marked their fourth overall encounter and second in the UFC.
When and where did Adesanya vs Pereira 2 take place?
Adesanya vs Pereira 2 happened at UFC 287 on April 8, 2023, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The fight headlined the main card and was one of the most anticipated bouts of the year, drawing massive global attention due to the personal rivalry and history between the two fighters.
What was at stake in this fight?
The UFC Middleweight Championship was on the line. Pereira entered as the defending champion after dethroning Adesanya at UFC 281. For Adesanya, it was a chance at redemption—not just to reclaim his belt, but to finally beat the one man who had haunted him across two combat sports. A loss would have been his fourth to Pereira, which could have seriously impacted his legacy.
How did the fight play out?
The first round was technical and tense, with both fighters trading leg kicks and calculated strikes. In the second round, Pereira turned up the pressure and pinned Adesanya against the cage, firing off punches and knees. However, Adesanya capitalized on an opening and landed a perfect counter right hand that wobbled Pereira. A follow-up right hook and hammer fists sealed the knockout at 4:21 of Round 2.
What made Adesanya’s knockout so special?
It was the timing and precision of Adesanya’s counter-strike that made the finish spectacular. In a moment where he looked cornered and pressured, Adesanya displayed world-class composure and sniped Pereira with clinical accuracy. The knockout was poetic given Pereira’s previous KO win over Adesanya in kickboxing. The finish was later named “Knockout of the Year” by various outlets including MMA Junkie.
In summary
The fourth encounter between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira at UFC 287 was more than just a fight; it was a narrative of redemption, resilience, and the ever-evolving nature of combat sports. Adesanya’s emphatic knockout not only reclaimed his title but also redefined his career trajectory, leaving an indelible mark on MMA history.
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