Israel Adesanya, Jared Cannonier Staredown Ahead Of UFC 276
One of the most stacked UFC pay-per-views is just one day away.
Middleweight champion Israel Adesanya will be defending his strap against top contender Jared Cannonier in the main event. The co-main event will then feature another title defense, but one between former rivals Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, who fights for the third time.
When Adesanya was asked about landing in the all-time rankings, he said he doesn’t care.
“I don’t really care to be honest. I’m just trying to do what I said, which is f—everybody up in this game,” he said at Thursday’s press conference.
All time rankings haven’t crossed @Stylebender‘s mind 👑
[ #UFC276 Press Conference LIVE NOW: https://t.co/j7Pf1QVT4p 🖥 ] pic.twitter.com/xn7f9N1G8g
— UFC (@ufc) June 30, 2022
Holloway, meanwhile, came Thursday night ready to play.
“You guys talking about damage… I’m known for taking damage and he’s known for not giving it,” Holloway said as Volkanovski laughed.
Damage? We talking about damage?
[ @BlessedMMA | #UFC276 Press Conference LIVE NOW: https://t.co/j7Pf1QVT4p 🖥 ] pic.twitter.com/mvVxAyJCF0
— UFC (@ufc) June 30, 2022
Volkanovski walked away with wins in the first two fights by unanimous and split decision.
Adesanya and Cannonier ended the event’s face offs with an intense handshake. The middleweight champion capped it all off by performing a ninjutsu, which pays homage to the famous anime “Naruto.”
Veteran broadcaster Michael Eaves will be at the analyst desk with retired UFC light heavyweight title challenger Anthony Smith.
Bruce Buffer will return to his famous role as octagon announcer.
Jon Anik, Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier will be handling the cageside commentary.