Imavov Stops Israel Adesanya With Devastating Knockout

Israel Adesanya finds himself in a difficult position in the middleweight division after suffering a shock knockout loss to Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Fight Night 250 held in Saudi Arabia.

The former two-time middleweight champion entered the match under huge pressure following consecutive defeats to Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis .

Despite being favoured to win, Adesanya failed to end his losing streak, as Imavov, a French fighter with Dagestani roots, achieved the most significant career victory with a stunning knockout in the second round.

Adesanya started the match light on his feet, using a series of heavy low kicks to target Imavov's lead leg. Nevertheless, the resolute Imavov pressed forward relentlessly, closing the gap and landing a shovel hook that jolted Adesanyas head backwards.

With just over a minute remaining in the round, Adesanya took a hard right hand but managed to stay on his feet. Unfortunately for the former champion, he couldn't recover quickly enough for the resumption. Moments later, Imavov delivered another mighty right hand, sending Adesanya crashing to the mat.