VIDEO: Strickland praises Poatan's striking, irritates Adesanya and causes confusion at UFC 276 press conference

S. Strickland and I. Adesanya exchange barbs at a press conference for FUC 276. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter @ufc

Opponent of Alex Poatán No. UFC 276, which takes place this Saturday (2), Sean Strickland stole the show at the promotional press conference for the event. In a ceremony held this Thursday (30), the 'bad boy' was able to irritate the middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg.), Israel adesanya, after stating that the Brazilian has the best striking of anyone present at the venue. The North American's speech shook the Nigerian, who lost twice to the São Paulo native in kickboxing.

“I would say the best striking is mine, but this guy (pointed to Poatan) was the man who hit that guy (pointed to Adesanya). Probably Alex Poatán (has the best striking). How much is the dispute? Two to zero for Alex, Israel?” asked Sean.

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Upon hearing Strickland's statement, the middleweight champion, who was sitting in front, appeared uncomfortable. Immediately, the Nigerian turned to the 'bad boy' and countered.

“Did you watch the fight (against Alex, in the kickboxing days)? Just do your job. (…) If you win your fight, when we face each other, I will make a 'TikTok' over his tomb,” Israel fired.

After Adesanya's speech, the atmosphere heated up. The athletes were surprised and even 'arranged' a fight.

“Look at this adult playing 'TikTok'. I'm going outside with you now. Let's go. You’re going to break a nail, stay calm,” said Sean.

Visibly uncomfortable, Adesanya didn't let it go.

“Come on, do something. I'll come over there and kick your ass. I’ll break your face”, said the middleweight champion.

This weekend, Strickland will have the most important fight of his career. The North American faces Alex Poatán and the winner will be able to win the right to fight for the title in the under-83,9kg category. in sequence.

At the top of the middleweight division since 2019, Adesanya is looking for his fifth title defense. On Saturday, the Nigerian will exchange forces with Jared Cannonier.

See the disagreement

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[ #UFC276 Press Conference LIVE NOW: https://t.co/j7Pf1QVT4p 🖥 ] pic.twitter.com/wveb1hOdUr

- UFC (@ufc) June 30, 2022

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