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With a well-defined strategy and intelligence when using his greatest weight against the champion of the lower category, Jan Blachowicz defeated Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-45 and 49-45) in the main fights of UFC 259, in the morning from Saturday to Sunday, in Las Vegas (USA). With the result, the Pole retains the heavyweight belt (up to 93kg) and imposes the Nigerian’s first career defeat in 21 games.
The trend now is that Brazilian Glover Teixeira, who was chosen as a reserve for this fight, will be Blachowicz’s next title challenger.
Jan Blachowicz defeated Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-45 and 49-45) – Photo: Getty Images
With many feints and base changes, Adesanya started the fight better. Although without much force, it was the Nigerian who hit the most attacks, while the Pole seemed to try to understand the opponent’s movement in the first moments. Blachowicz tried to break free in the last minute of the round, but Adesanya defended well.
Adesanya came back more aggressive and hit the champion a few shots, but Blachowicz responded with a good combination. The Pole attempted a takedown and almost brought the fight to the ground, but the challenger managed to repel the charge. The Nigerian walked further ahead, but Blachowicz found the distance better and forced his opponent to retreat at times.
The third round started out agitated. Blachowicz put up a bombardment on the Nigerian, hit good shots, tried to put on the ground, threatened with a strangulation and a bare foot behind, but Adesanya escaped and reacted with a combination at close range. The Pole looked for the clinch, but the challenger escaped. Adesanya took more initiative, but Blachowicz balanced the actions with dangerous counterattacks.
Jan Blachowicz defeated Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-45 and 49-45) – Photo: Getty Images
The champion returned for the fourth round, fighting more for the center of the octagon and finding more of Adesanya’s face. With about three minutes to go, Blachowicz applied the takedown and fell on his opponent’s guard. The Pole gained half guard and worked short punches, without giving the Nigerian much room to stand. Blachowicz still managed to get past guard and stay at the 100kg position, but he returned to the sock and controlled the end of the round well.
Adesanya came in better in the fifth round and was quick to dodge and attack, however in the middle of the round, Blachowicz landed another takedown. The Pole won the half guard and used his weight well not to leave room for the challenger. With short strokes, he took the fight over the top with intelligence.
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