Israel Adesanya minimizes Yoel Romero's physical strength: 'He's just a human'

I. Adesanya in victory for Ultimate. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook UFC

At the beginning of the year, Israel adesanya surprised the MMA world by stating that Yoel romero would be his opponent in his first defense of the middleweight title (up to 93,9kg.). which takes place on March 8th, at UFC 248, in Las Vegas. Although he is not at his best, many were impressed by the Nigerian's courage in taking on a risky fight, as Romero is known for his physical strength and the dangers he can impose on his opponents. In an interview with 'Yahoo Sports', Israel tried to reassure fans and minimized the risks presented by the new rival.

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“Why is everyone so scared of this human? He is a human, at the end of the story. It's just another guy who bleeds if you cut him. I have very good footwork. It's hard for you to get your hands on me when you can't see me. He's like, 'See you soon, kid.' No, you won’t see it” stated the champion.

The confirmation of the duel caused controversy in MMA circles, as Ultimate agreed to cast a challenger who is coming off two consecutive defeats in his professional record. With the dispute, the company ended up postponing the dream of Paulo borrachinha, current number two in the category, in facing the Nigerian – against whom he has already built a rivalry. The Brazilian is recovering from biceps surgery and can return to action from April.

Adesanya justified the decision to face Yoel by supporting the idea that the Cuban is a feared athlete within the division and Ultimate always finds it difficult to find an opponent who is willing to exchange forces against the combatant.

Israel became middleweight champion after dethroning Robert whittaker in a confrontation valid for the unification of the belt, in October last year, by UFC 243.