UFC 236 video recap: Adesanya wins decision in end-to-end war with Gastelum

Both men went to war as Israel Adesanya got the nod against Kelvin Gastelum by decision in the co-main event of UFC 236.

Israel Adesanya defeated Kelvin Gastelum by unanimous decision in the co-main event of UFC 236, in a end-to-end striking affair that will undoubtedly be a top contender for Fight of the Year. It also netted Adesanya the interim middleweight title.

What was the high point of the fight?

A right hand midway through the first round from Gastelum just staggered Adesanya for a moment, but the New Zealender recovered well. Gastelum continued his success in the second round until Adesanya dropped him and hurt him badly with a spinning elbow later in the round.

Gastelum landed a takedown in the third. In the fourth, Gastelum hurt Adesanya again this time with a head kick, whilst in the fifth round the back-to-back action continued but Adesanya got the better of Gastelum, knocking him down twice and almost getting the finish at the buzzer.

Where do these two go from here?

Despite the loss, Gastelum showed huge heart in the fight and is still undoubtedly right at the top of the middleweight division. A rematch with Chris Weidman, or a fight with Yoel Romero is next to make for Gastelum.

Unless the injury bug creeps in again for the undisputed champion, the next fight for Adesanya is obviously one with Robert Whittaker. It’s been a terrific journey for Adesanya, who improved his UFC record to 6-0 with the win.

Watch it now, later or never?

Watch it now to see highlights of Gastelum’s and Adesanya’s epic fight.