Nassourdine Imavov knocks Israel Adesanya out

For the first time in nearly six years, former two-time middleweight champion Israel Adesanya fought in a non-title bout on Saturday.  "The Last Stylebender" headlined the UFC Saudi Arabia fight card against No. 5 ranked Nassourdine Imavov.  

Adesanya entered the fight coming off back-to-back losses for the first time in his career.  Imavov made the walk to the octagon inside anb Arena in Riyadh riding a three-fight winning streak and looking to pick up the biggest win of his career.  

Imavov took the center of the cage.  Adesanya landed a kick to the body followed by a leg kick.  Imavov responded with a leg kick.  Adesanya continue to target Imavov's legs.  Adesanya switches stances.  Imavov closes the distance and worked to get the fight to the ground. Adesanya defended the attempt and looked for a throw of his own.  They separated and Adesanya went back to landing leg kicks.  Imavov clinched but Adesanya pushed him away.  

Midway through the opening round, Adesanya used his jab to maintain distance.  Imavov pressed forward with punches but didn't land cleanly.  They stood directly in front of each other.  Imavov stepped the pocket with an uppercut that popped Adesanya's head back.  Adesanya fired back and Imavov looked for a takedown.  Adesanya shook off the attempt.  He landed to the body with a kick.  MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Adesanya.  

Adesanya landed a leg kick followed by a left hand to the body to start the second frame.  He delivered a kick to the body.  Imavov countered with a right hand that sent Adesanya crashing to the canvas.  Imavov followed up with an uppercut and punches.  The referee stepped in to stop the fight.  The official time of the finish was 0:30 of the second round.