UFC 287 proved to be an unforgettable night of fights, featuring Israel Adesanya's sensational knockout of Alex Pereira, Gilbert Burns' triumph over Jorge Masvidal, and a surprising retirement speech that took an unexpected turn. Held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, the event delivered high-stakes matchups and memorable moments that will be talked about for years to come.
Israel Adesanya's Masterful Performance
The co-main event saw middleweight champion Israel "The Last Stylebender" Adesanya looking to regaiin his title against dangerous striker Alex "Poatan" Pereira. In a fight that showcased Adesanya's striking prowess, he delivered a stunning knockout in the third round, leaving Pereira unable to continue.
Adesanya's performance was a masterclass in striking, as he skillfully dismantled Pereira with precise and powerful strikes. The victory not only solidified Adesanya's position as the undisputed middleweight champion but also avenged his previous 4 losses to Pereira, further establishing him as one of the most dominant fighters in the division.
Gilbert Burns Outclasses Jorge Masvidal
In another exciting bout, welterweight contenders Gilbert "Durinho" Burns and Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal went head-to-head in a fight that had significant implications for the division's title picture. Demonstrating superior grappling and control, Burns managed to neutralize Masvidal's striking and secure a unanimous decision victory.
The win puts Burns back in the conversation for a title shot and marks a setback for Masvidal, who was hoping to make a run at the championship following his previous losses to current champion Kamaru Usman.
Jorge Masvidal's Unexpected Retirement Speech
Following his defeat to Gilbert Burns, Jorge Masvidal surprised fans and fellow fighters alike by announcing his retirement from the sport. In an emotional speech, Masvidal thanked his coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his storied career.
However, the speech took an unexpected turn when Masvidal praised former US President Donald Trump, crediting him for his role in the growth of MMA and UFC. Masvidal's comments sparked a mixture of reactions from the audience and the wider MMA community, highlighting the polarizing nature of Trump's influence on the sport.
UFC 287 will be remembered as a night of unforgettable moments, from Israel Adesanya's knockout victory over Alex Pereira to Gilbert Burns' impressive win against Jorge Masvidal. The event was capped off by Masvidal's unexpected retirement speech, which included a controversial nod to Donald Trump. As the dust settles from this action-packed event, fans are left to ponder the future of the fighters involved and the lasting impact of their performances on the MMA landscape.