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In the highly anticipated main event of UFC 293 in 2023, Sean Strickland faced off against Israel Adesanya on Australian soil. Surprisingly, the overwhelming support from the crowd seemed to favor Strickland, despite Adesanya’s New Zealand citizenship. This unexpected display of support has sparked discussions and raised questions about the underlying reasons.
Strickland’s Likeable Personality
Strickland’s unique and outspoken personality has garnered him a dedicated following. His raw and unfiltered nature resonates with fans who appreciate his honesty and willingness to challenge norms. During his pre-fight interviews, Strickland’s charisma and sense of humor endeared him to the Australian crowd, creating a connection that extended beyond nationality.
Adesanya’s Controversial Statements
Adesanya, known for his outspoken demeanor, made several controversial statements leading up to the fight. He labeled Australia’s COVID-19 lockdown policies as “communist” and criticized the country’s approach to free speech. These remarks alienated some Australian fans, potentially contributing to the crowd’s support for his opponent.
Racial Bias Allegations
After the fight, Adesanya himself attributed Strickland’s popularity to racism. The former champion suggested that the Australian crowd’s support was motivated by racial biases. While these claims have been met with skepticism by some, they have also ignited discussions about the potential influence of racial dynamics in sports fandom.
Underdog Appeal
Strickland entered the fight as a significant underdog, facing off against the reigning middleweight champion. This underdog status often evokes sympathy and support from fans, who are drawn to the prospect of an upset. Strickland’s relatable underdog narrative may have resonated with the Australian crowd, who rallied behind him as he sought to dethrone the champion.
Local Support
Strickland’s Australian opponent, Robert Whittaker, had fought multiple times in the country and enjoyed a strong local following. Some fans who supported Whittaker may have transferred their support to Strickland against Adesanya, creating a sense of national unity and shared animosity towards the New Zealander.
In conclusion, the overwhelming support for Sean Strickland at UFC 293 resulted from a complex interplay of factors. His likeable personality, Adesanya’s controversial statements, potential racial bias, underdog appeal, and local support all contributed to this unexpected display of favoritism for the American challenger.