The eyes of the combat sports world were firmly fixed on Salt Lake City this past weekend, with countless fans around the globe watching with bated breath as Alex Pereira walked through the fire to deliver yet another stunning knockout.
One man who was particularly invested in the title fight was former middleweight champion and Poatan’s long-term rival, Israel Adesanya, whose reaction to the main event is already going viral online.
Israel Adesanya shares live reaction to Alex Pereira’s win at UFC 307
Former middleweight king Israel Adesanya was hosting a live watchalong party for UFC 307 alongside comedian Andrew Schulz, with their reaction to the incredible knockout making for some fascinating viewing.
“If Khalil knocks him out, that would be amazing – but I think Alex [Pereira] knocks him out,” predicted Adesanya as the two light heavyweight warriors stared each other down before the opening bell.
Yet throughout the early portions of the bout, Adesanya’s critique would often mirror those of the commentary team with ‘The Last Stylebender’ identifying the leg kicks as a particularly potent weapon of Poatan.
Although he couldn’t help but offer a wry smile as he noted how dangerous it is for Pereira to work his magic along the fence, harking back to his own KO win over Poatan back at 185lbs.
“Where’s the leg kick? Find the legkick… It’s the reach, it’s the leg reach; he can’t touch it… He’s [Pereira] got this now, but against the fence he can’t get cocky or get comfortable… Shit happens [against the fence]
“Khalil is better early on, I think he has to [knock Alex out now] otherwise Poatan is going to get those leg kicks going again because the way he’s throwing those leg kicks is impressive and his hands are up, his hands are up more than most fights.”
Whilst it was a fabulous performance from the Brazilian, Khalil Rountree Jr certainly took the fight to him; wobbling Pereira on several occasions, including with a beautifully timed hook as Pereira looked to turn a corner.