Each of these matchups presents a unique challenge for Adesanya and makes sense based on their current standings and recent performances. Whether it’s a rematch with a familiar opponent or a new challenge against a rising star, each bout could be a compelling addition to Adesanya's career and the middleweight division.

1. Loser of Khamzat Chimaev vs. Robert Whittaker (UFC 308)

Robert Whittaker

• Current Ranking: #3 Middleweight
• Record: 26-7 (10 wins by knockout, 5 by submission)
• Recent Performances:
• Win: Ikram Aliskerov (KO) - June 22, 2024
• Loss: Dricus du Plessis (TKO) - July 8, 2023
• Previous Fight: Defeated Adesanya (Decision) - February 12, 2022

Khamzat Chimaev

• Current Ranking: #11 Middleweight
• Record: 13-0 (6 wins by knockout, 5 by submission)
• Recent Performances:
• Win: Kamaru Usman (Decision) - October 21, 2023
• Win: Kevin Holland (Submission) - September 10, 2022
• Previous Fight: Recently competed in Middleweight and has been dominant.

Matchup Analysis

• Against Whittaker: Adesanya vs. Whittaker III could be a compelling storyline due to their past bouts and the history they share. Both fighters are top contenders in the division, and a rematch would be a highly anticipated bout given their previous close encounters.
• Against Chimaev: Chimaev is a rising star with an undefeated record, and a win over Chimaev could significantly boost Adesanya’s standing. This matchup would be intriguing due to Chimaev’s dominant wrestling and striking skills against Adesanya’s striking prowess.

2. Loser of Nassourdine Imavov vs. Brendan Allen (UFC Paris 2024)

Nassourdine Imavov

• Current Ranking: #4 Middleweight
• Record: 14-4 (6 wins by knockout, 4 by submission)
• Recent Performances:
• Win: Jared Cannonier (TKO) - June 8, 2024
• Loss: Sean Strickland (Decision) - January 14, 2023

Brendan Allen

• Current Ranking: #7 Middleweight
• Record: 21-6 (11 wins by submission, 8 by knockout)
• Recent Performances:
• Win: Chris Curtis (Submission) - June 22, 2024
• Loss: Kelvin Gastelum (TKO) - March 9, 2024

Matchup Analysis

• Against Imavov: Imavov has shown he can compete at the top level with recent victories over top fighters. A fight with Adesanya would be a clash of styles and a chance for Adesanya to rebound against a top-five contender.
• Against Allen: Allen has proven himself as a formidable opponent with strong grappling and finishing abilities. A fight against Allen would test Adesanya’s ability to handle a high-pressure, aggressive grappler.

3. Loser of Jared Cannonier vs. Caio Borralho (UFC Vegas 96)

Jared Cannonier

• Current Ranking: #5 Middleweight
• Record: 17-7 (10 wins by knockout)
• Recent Performances:
• Loss: Nassourdine Imavov (TKO) - June 8, 2024
• Win: Marvin Vettori (Decision) - June 17, 2023
• Previous Fight: Lost to Adesanya (Decision) - July 2, 2022

Caio Borralho

• Current Ranking: #12 Middleweight
• Record: 16-1 (5 wins by knockout, 4 by submission)
• Recent Performances:
• Win: Paul Craig (KO) - May 4, 2024
• Win: Abus Magomedov (Decision) - November 4, 2023

Matchup Analysis

• Against Cannonier: Adesanya vs. Cannonier II is a possibility, and it would make sense given their previous bout and Cannonier’s status as a top contender. Both fighters are high-level and this fight would carry significant implications for the division.
• Against Borralho: Borralho is a rising star with a strong grappling background. A matchup with Adesanya would be an interesting test for Adesanya’s ability to handle a well-rounded, emerging talent.