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#4. Sean Strickland vs. Jared Cannonier
As discussed earlier, Sean Strickland will have to play the waiting game and see how things pan out at UFC 271. A potential version of events could make Jared Cannonier the obvious choice for Strickland's next opponent.
While the winner of Derek Brunson and Jared Cannonier is expected to challenge for the title next, should Robert Whittaker win the main event, plans could change. The UFC would almost certainly book a third fight between Adesanya and Whittaker, which would leave the Brunson/Cannonier winner in limbo.
Brunson would likely try and sit on a title shot with a win. However, Cannonier seems more likely to be convinced into taking another fight after beating Brunson. He has spoken in the past about his financial difficulties and, as a result, is typically keen to remain active in the octagon.
In this scenario, a bout between Strickland and Cannonier would make perfect sense as it would become a number one contender fight in the middleweight division.
#3. Sean Strickland vs. Israel Adesanya
While we have suggested that the winner of Brunson and Cannonier is likely the favorite to become the next title challenger, the champion's preference could change everything. It would certainly not seem unlike Israel Adesanya to win on Saturday and throw us somewhat of a curveball by calling out Strickland.
In Adesanya's eyes, the controversial Strickland might be appealing as this fight could be easier to sell. The pair would be sure to have some interesting back-and-forths and you can imagine that could lead to plenty of attention from the media and the public.
In particular, the chance of this fight being next increases drastically in the event of a somewhat dull win for Derek Brunson on Saturday. Adesanya already has a win over Brunson and has stated his desire to face new challengers, so he could easily be tempted by the intriguing Strickland.
