Leading up to UFC 293, UFC staff writer E. Spencer Kyte engaged in a one-on-one discussion with New England Cartel head coach Tyson Chartier, focusing on the intriguing middleweight title fight between Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland.
Chartier identified Adesanya's creativity and striking as his standout traits, emphasizing his ability to manage distance and employ kickboxing. In contrast, Strickland's unique awkwardness, volume, and relentless pressure were highlighted as his key strengths.
The conversation delved into the fighters' paths to victory, with Chartier emphasizing Adesanya's need to control distance and avoid brawls, while Strickland should pressure, put Adesanya on the fence, and potentially mix in takedowns to alter the fight's landscape.
The X Factor centered around Strickland's willingness to grapple, with Chartier pondering if Strickland would engage in grappling early to keep Adesanya honest. The coaching curiosity focused on how Adesanya handles stubborn pressure and whether Strickland's approach brings out the best in him.
In terms of Strickland's mindset, Chartier discussed the possibility of him embracing grappling as a strategic move to secure victory. The discussion reflected the coaches' perspectives on key elements that could influence the fight.
Kyte and Chartier explored additional curiosities, including how Adesanya deals with relentless pressure and if Strickland's approach allows Adesanya to showcase his best fighting style. Both coaches acknowledged the increasing intrigue as the fight approached, considering Strickland's potential to upset Adesanya.
The conversation touched on Strickland's likely trash-talking during the fight, with Kyte predicting Strickland's verbal tactics and the potential impact on Adesanya's response.
Overall, the discussion highlighted the multifaceted elements that make the Adesanya vs. Strickland matchup more intriguing than initially perceived, with both coaches expressing heightened interest as the event drew near.
