The forthcoming Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight title fight between Nigerian-New Zealander, Israel Adesanya and Brazilian knockout specialist, Paulo Costa, is splitting MMA fans.
The fight is billed for Sunday at the Flash Forum on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Both fighters are undefeated in their professional fights, with Adesanya winning 19 fights with 14 knockouts, while Costa won 13 fights with 11 knockouts since making his MMA career in 2012.
The quality of the fight has left fans divided on who will come out tops.
A Twitter user @alphaapril1 says although he is a Nigerian and a big fan of Adesanya, he will be placing his bet on the Brazilian knockout specialist.
“Isreal Adesanya is a good fighter but Costa is a knockout specialist. I have seen his highlights and he is a beast. I see him winning the fight. My money is on the beasty Brazilian.”
“This fight is really going to put me on the edge of my seat and the winner will be difficult to call. My heart wants Adesanya to win but Costa’s pedigree is off the chart. I see Costa taking it via unanimous decision,” Dotun Badmus tweeted.
Other fans believe the 31-year-old Lagos-born star will take the day.
“Since you are the last stylebendar, go and bend every opponent in your way. Nobody should be before you and after you. Victory is yours bro, Nigerians are with you all the way, we love you,” Kayode John tweeted.
“Naija to the world we are all behind you brother. Go conquer the world because in this country we are conquerors.” @Abk_Dplaymaker wrote on twitter.
“I expect nothing less but a classic and epic fight from my man @stylebender against @BorrachinhaMMA, I know for sure Paulo will come like a mighty wind but I expect Adesanya is gonna take care of Paulo’s mistakes. Full focus Izzy and you shall overcome,” @manutdbelove tweeted.
