5 reasons why Israel Adesanya vs. Robert Whittaker 2 at UFC 271 is going to play out differently

#2. Robert Whittaker has improved his striking

While grappling may be the answer against 'The Last Stylebender', the former champ is looking to utilize all of his skills. Whittaker was already a capable striker when he faced Adesanya for the first time. However, the Kiwi utilized his reach advantage to disrupt Whittaker's flow.

His most recent performances prove that the Australian has been working on his striking. 'The Reaper' showed his improved accuracy and timing against Jared Cannonier and Kelvin Gastelum. These specific improvements may prove valuable against Adesanya as he is a master of feinting and movement.

'Bobby Knuckles' has also hired Hall of Fame boxing coach Johnny Lewis to help him prepare for his rematch. Lewis believes that the 31-year old has made progress in every aspect of boxing and is punching harder than ever. He is confident Whittaker can go toe to toe with the champ in boxing.

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#1. The UFC middleweight champ has been strengthening his weakness

The UFC middleweight king is primarily a striker and has never actively taken a fight to the ground. Critics have repeatedly claimed that the Kiwi's grappling skills are not on par with his striking. However, accomplished middleweight wrestlers like Derek Brunson and Marvin Vettori have tried and failed to take the champ down.

'The Last Stylebender' has impeccable takedown defense. Adesanya utilizes his speed and makes it hard to secure double leg takedowns. Even when opponents get hold of a single leg, the Nigeran scrambles out immediately. Only Jan Blachowicz successfully used his strength and size advantage to take the champ down multiple times.

However, Izzy has been working hard to improve his ground game. In his rematch against Marvin Vettori, 'The Last Stylebender' stuffed almost every takedown attempt. In round 3, he even reversed a rear-naked choke. In a recent clip posted to Twitter, the UFC champ can be seen practicing his takedowns. It seems that Izzy will be ready for Whittaker's wrestling.