The Scout: Adesanya vs Whittaker 2

Posted on February 11, 2022February 12, 2022 | Posted by The Scout

Israel Adesanya vs Robert Whittaker

The two best middleweights in the world headline UFC 271 in Houston, with Israel Adesanya (21-1) defending his belt against Rob Whittaker (24-5).

This pair met back in 2019 with Adesanya scoring a comprehensive second round knockout win. Since then, Israel has defended his middleweight crown three times, while failing in his lone venture up to light heavyweight.

Whittaker in that time has had three straight wins of his own, decision victories over Darren Till, Jared Cannonier and Kelvin Gastelum.

The meeting in 2019 couldn’t have been scripted any better for Adesanya, with Whittaker coming out uber-aggressive (almost reckless), leaving himself constantly vulnerable on the counter. Issy was able to pick Whittaker apart, using his superior length and reach to full advantage.

Adesanya stands four inches taller with a six-inch reach advantage, and for Whittaker to have any chance in this fight, he is going to have to constantly enter Israel’s striking range (like he did in fight one).

Whittaker has no doubt improved since 2019, and I believe when he says he has learnt not to let emotion get the better of him like he did in the first meeting. Zero finishes in his last three fights is a big worry when facing Issy, as is the strategy of coming at the champ all fight.

Watching the replay of fight one, the lasting memory is Israel’s ability to lean back, taking his head out of range, while still managing to throw (and land) devastating blows as his body moves away from his opponent. I think one of those blows can land again here.

Suggested Bet: Israel Adesanya by KO, TKO or DQ @ $2.20*

Value Bet: Israel Adesanya to Win in Rounds 3-4 @ $6.50*

*Odds correct as at 9am, 9th February 2022.

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