Israel Adesanya is aiming for a comeback in late 2025, focusing solely on a rematch against Sean Strickland. After Strickland defeated Adesanya to capture the UFC middleweight title at UFC 293, Adesanya has been seeking to reverse his fortunes with this particular opponent.
Since losing the championship, Adesanya has struggled, entering a three-fight losing streak. Despite his repeated provocations, Sean Strickland has largely remained silent, prompting curiosity from the New Zealand fighter about Strickland’s current state.
Adesanya Expresses Confidence in Beating Strickland Again
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Adesanya indicated that his return could happen around September or October 2025. He pointed out that both fighters have lost their last bouts, and proposed a straightforward rematch.
Most likely, I’m gonna guess to mid September, October,
Adesanya said.
Sean. No question. He lost his last fight. I lost my fight. And it’s like, ‘Alright. Cool. Want a rematch?’
He called the fight “easy money,” asserting that Strickland had already defeated him decisively, but he feels he can perform better next time.
You beat me already, handily, five nil. It’s like come on. That’s easy money. Come on.
I just feel like I can do better. And if he beats me at my best, I’d be like, ‘F— yeah, good game.’ And I’ll leave it at that. But I know I can do better.
That’s the one, that’s the only one I want,
Adesanya emphasized.
Adesanya Questions Strickland’s Silence and Physical Condition
Despite Adesanya’s persistent calls for the rematch, Strickland has not responded. The absence of any rebuttal has led Adesanya to speculate on possible reasons, including a decline in Strickland’s physical condition.
But then he hasn’t responded. He probably got fat. People sent me a video of that as well. I was like, ‘Oh, s—.’ So I don’t know. Maybe he’s going through something.
He continued to address Strickland during Men’s Mental Health Month with a stark message delivered during the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony in 2025.
Sean, it’s June — Men’s Mental Health Month. I hope you’re looking after your mental health and you’re physical health… you fat b*tch.
Someone sent me a screenshot and he’s fat now,
Adesanya said.
I saw it and I was like ‘Oh s—t.’ Sean’s a guy that definitely has a lot of oldschool stuff, trauma he has to deal with. And we all go through s—t. I think for him it’s easy, he should have just said something and started roasting me or whatever. That’s what Sean Strickland would do. But he’s been quiet.
So Sean, it’s June, Men’s Mental Health Month. I hope you’re looking out for your mental health … and also look after your physical health. You fat b—h!
Anticipating the Impact of the Potential Rematch
The Israel Adesanya Sean Strickland rematch is anticipated with tension and uncertainty. Adesanya’s focus on this fight as his comeback mission sets the stage for a defining moment in his career. Strickland’s silence and physical appearance have added fuel to the rivalry, increasing fan interest in the potential showdown.
As both fighters prepare for their futures in the UFC, this rematch could determine the direction of the middleweight division and possibly mark a pivotal turning point for Adesanya’s path back to title contention.