The title rematch between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland has been called into question by UFC President Dana White.
Last time out, Strickland stunned the world by dominating Adesanya to win the middleweight belt. Following his victory, it was widely assumed that ‘The Last Stylebender’ would receive an immediate rematch, but this may no longer be the case.
White cast some doubt on the middleweight championship bout during the Contender Series news conference on Wednesday.
Another rising challenger in the weight class, according to the UFC CEO, could force his way into contention.
“I mean, that fight (between Strickland and Adesanya) just happened. A couple of fights are going to play out here now over the next month or so and then we’ll go from there and figure out what’s next,” he said.
“Whatever the best fight to make when all is said and done, and who’s injured, who’s not injured, who can go, what time, where, you know? There’s a lot of different factors that play into what we’re going to do next.”
The middleweight division is stacked with a number of high-level contenders who are all hoping to be called for the next shot at UFC gold. Dricus du Plessis is the obvious standout, beating all six of his opponents inside the octagon.
Du Plessis was originally meant to meet Adesanya in the cage this year but was replaced with Strickland when he refused the fight date due to injury. The South African may now jump ahead of the rest of the competitors to get his shot at the champion.
There are also some huge matchups set to take place later this year that may shape the future of the division. No.4 ranked Jared Cannonier will welcome Roman Dolidze into the cage in a battle between two powerhouses December 2.
Another fight at middleweight will see Khamzat Chimaev make his return to the weight class when he collides with Paulo Costa later this month. ‘Borz’ has already called out champion Strickland and hopes a win at UFC 294 October 21 secures him a title shot.