Israel Adesanya Delivers Classic Performance Against Kelvin Gastelum At UFC 236.
By Olukayode Olumuyiwa
Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has etched his name in the annals of mixed martial arts history with a pulsating victory over Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 236—a bout widely hailed as one of the finest championship clashes in the sport.
A Battle of Resilience and Skill
Adesanya, whose illustrious championship reign included six successful middleweight title defences—second only to Anderson Silva’s record ten—faced a stern test in his interim title fight against the then 16-3 Gastelum. The fight took place as the co-main event to Dustin Poirier versus Max Holloway II, following Adesanya’s impressive passing-of-the-torch victory over Anderson Silva at UFC 234.
The bout was a dramatic exhibition of momentum swings. Gastelum, buoyed by wins over formidable opponents such as Jacare Souza and Michael Bisping, made his mark early by inflicting visible damage on Adesanya in the opening round—a rare setback for the Nigerian kickboxer. Despite this, Adesanya’s renowned technical prowess and composure allowed him to weather the storm and slowly regain control.
A Controversial Fourth Round and a Dominant Finish
The fourth round brought its own drama when Gastelum landed a late head kick that nearly altered the course of the fight. In a move that sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, Gastelum opted to pursue a takedown after visibly unsettling Adesanya, a decision that remains a talking point in post-fight analyses.
Undeterred, Adesanya delivered a resounding performance in the final round. Displaying a blend of precision striking and tactical brilliance, he knocked Gastelum down three times, nearly securing a knockout finish. The Nigerian fighter’s efforts were recognised by all three judges, who scored the closing round 10-8, ultimately awarding him the victory and the interim middleweight title.
A Testament to ‘The Last Stylebender’
This hard-fought win against Gastelum not only affirmed Adesanya’s place among the elite but also symbolised his enduring commitment to excellence in the UFC. Despite facing setbacks—including a loss of form following his reign, which was curtailed by a defeat to perennial rival Alex Pereira in 2022—Adesanya’s performance at UFC 236 remains a sterling example of his ability to overcome adversity.
As fans continue to debate the nuances of that unforgettable bout, one thing remains clear: Israel Adesanya’s legacy as ‘The Last Stylebender’ is firmly cemented, and his battle with Kelvin Gastelum will long be remembered as a masterclass in determination, skill, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
