You may be excited to see Adesanya face off against Strickland at UFC 293. But before you get too attached, you should know the fight faces one major hurdle.
With Dricus Du Plessis reportedly unable to attend the Sept. 9 event in Sydney for Adesanya’s next championship defence, Strickland appears to be next in line. But his visa process may become a hindrance. Continue reading to find out what Strickland’s coach says about this and their action plan.
He recently shared that their team is actively preparing for the upcoming fight. However, the fight’s occurrence depends on Strickland’s ability to secure a visa for Australia.
Nicksick conveyed, during an interview with Submission Radio, that the indications are positive. He mentioned that he had just finished a sparring session and had discussed the matter with Sean. Nicksick expressed his intention to be present in Australia to support Casey O’Neill and Manel Kape in their matches. He added that having Strickland on the card would be beneficial, but for now, the main focus is sorting out the visa logistics. Although the signs are promising, Nicksick emphasised that the fight has not been officially confirmed yet.
Nicksick explained that the progress is currently contingent upon the visa proceedings. He mentioned that everyone involved had shown their agreement, yet discussions regarding specific details and figures haven’t taken place until the visa situation is resolved. Nicksick opined that other aspects should not pose significant challenges once the visa aspect is sorted. The primary focus remains on successfully navigating the visa process, after which the subsequent steps related to the fight’s logistics and business matters can be addressed smoothly. Strickland had stated that he would seek a salary increase to face Adesanya on short notice, and Nicksick is optimistic they can arrange with the UFC once their visa problem is resolved.
Strickland, 32, is on a two-fight winning streak against rising middleweights Nassourdine Imavov and Abus Magomedov. He has worked out with former champion Alex Pereira, who knocked him out at UFC 276. Pereira believes that Strickland can disrupt Adesanya’s rhythm. Nicksick envisions Strickland presenting a unique challenge for “The Stylebender.”
Nicksick commented on Strickland’s “unorthodox threat,” highlighting his durability, relentless pressure, and aggressive fighting style. Nicksick emphasised that Strickland’s approach differs from the norm and could catch Adesanya off guard. He expressed his appreciation for Pereira’s endorsement, particularly because Pereira himself has faced Adesanya multiple times. Nicksick acknowledged Pereira’s confidence in Strickland’s capabilities yet emphasised that the execution in the fight arena matters most.”
It’s reassuring when someone like Alex, who has firsthand experience against both Strickland and Izzy, lends his vote of confidence,” Nicksick remarked. However, he acknowledged that the actual performance inside the octagon is where the true test lies. Nicksick concluded by noting the significance of appreciating such endorsements while remaining grounded in the reality of the challenge.
So, what do you think? Will he make it to the octagon? Leave your predictions below!
