Tyron Woodley gives controversial analysis of Israel Adesanya's move to light heavyweight

T. Woodley (photo) accused I. Adesanya of fearing J. Jones. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Former UFC welterweight champion (up to 77kg), Tyron woodley has not yet received the news well that Israel adesanya will be tested in the light heavyweight division (up to 93kg) against Jan Blachowicz. In an interview with 'Helen Yee Sports', the North American criticized the Nigerian's attitude and insinuated that the Nigerian would have avoided facing Jon Jones. Superfight between middleweight leader (up to 83,9kg.) and the Pole takes place at UFC 259.

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“I thought Adesanya had some business to do at midfield. Shortly after Jones moved up to heavyweight (in August 2020), Adesanya moved up to light heavyweight. But he said he wouldn't move up to light heavyweight to face Jones. If you say you are the best, now, will you move up a category to face Blachowicz? Wouldn’t you do that against Jones?”, assessed Woodley.

The former owner of the welterweight belt then became even more controversial by suggesting that Israel avoided a duel against 'Bones', who reigned supreme for 10 years in the under-93kg division. For the North American, the Nigerian found a 'shortcut' to try to win his second UFC belt.

“Adesanya had the opportunity to face the greatest fighter of all time and wanted to wait two years. He should do what he wants, but don't go around provoking Jones. Jones challenged him, but Adesanya denied and asked for more time. A year later, Jones moved up and so did Adesanya. Everyone wants to be double champions, but you don’t joke with Blachowicz”, he concluded.

In 2019, after winning the middleweight belt and consolidating himself as one of the biggest names in the recent history of Ultimate, Adesanya started to provoke Jones. Always provocative,'Bones' did not remain silent and both began to exchange barbs on social media.

Against Blachowicz, Israel, in addition to trying to win its second title, will try to remain undefeated in MMA. Today, the Nigerian has 20 consecutive victories and doesn't know what it's like to lose in the sport.