Michael Bisping predicts Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia

Michael Bisping has taken a good look at the marquee middleweight matchup at UFC Fight Night 250.

Israel Adesanya (24-4 MMA, 13-4 UFC) returns when he takes on Nassourdine Imavov (15-4 MMA, 7-2 UFC) in Saturday’s main event (ESPN+) at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Adesanya, who’s lost three of his past four, recently told MMA Junkie that the middleweight division is boring without him. Bisping thinks the former champion will be motivated enough to stop streaking contender Imavov.

“More than likely Israel Adesanya gets a decision,” Bisping said on his YouTube channel. “I think he uses the jab, I think he lowers his base, I think he’s probably pissed off and a little bit embarrassed. Israel Adesanya, when you’re the champion of the world, when you’re defending the belt so many times and you literally think your sh*t don’t stink and you can beat everybody, you do get a little bit embarrassed.

“Your pride takes a hit when you lose three out of the last four, and you see the middleweight division moving along without you. …Over five rounds, I do believe Israel Adesanya wins via decision. I think he maintains range, keeps his distance, moves around, uses all of the space inside the octagon and in Saudi Arabia, Israel Adesanya will be the winner.”

According to BetMGM, Adesanya is a slight -165 favorite over Imavov, who’s a +140 underdog.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 250.