Israel Adesanya, the former UFC middleweight champion, is facing an uncertain future in the sport. In a recent interview on New Zealand’s “The Rock” radio show, Adesanya revealed that he has no plans to fight for a “long time” following his upset loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in Australia. Adesanya’s defeat came as a shock to many, as he was the heavy favorite going into the fight.
Despite the disappointment, Adesanya refuses to make excuses. He acknowledged Strickland’s victory and now intends to prioritize self-care and healing his body. Adesanya’s intense schedule, which included four title fights in just 14 months, has taken a toll on his physical well-being. It is almost unheard of for a champion to fight at such a demanding pace in today’s UFC.
“I know me, I’m not leaving for that,” Adesanya declared when pressed about retirement rumors. “I know me, but if I did, I’m fine. I don’t need to prove anything else. But I know what I can do, and I know what I can change in my lifestyle to make my body adapt to where I need it to be.”
Adesanya’s career has been marked by resilience and determination. Dubbed “The Last Style Bender,” he has fought nine times since March 2020, with all nine bouts being title fights. This includes a knockout loss to Alex Pereira in November, a defeat that was later avenged in a rematch in April. Adesanya revealed that he went into that rematch injured, demonstrating his steadfast commitment to competing at the highest level.
With an impressive record of 24-3, Adesanya is widely regarded as one of the greatest middleweight fighters in the history of MMA. Hailing from Nigeria but raised in New Zealand, he has captivated audiences with his skill and charisma, becoming one of the UFC’s most beloved stars over the years.
Initially, UFC President Dana White had expressed plans for an immediate rematch between Adesanya and Strickland. However, with Adesanya now choosing to step back from the octagon, those plans seem unlikely to materialize. Instead, the spotlight will shift to the upcoming fight between Khamzat Chimaev and former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. The winner of that bout will likely be Strickland’s first title defense.
Adesanya’s message to his critics and rivals is clear: he will take the time needed to heal and rejuvenate. When he returns, he promises to come back stronger than ever before. Although the road ahead may be uncertain, there is no doubt that Adesanya’s indomitable spirit will guide him towards new triumphs in the UFC.
Israel Adesanya’s revelation that he will be taking an extended break from fighting has shaken the MMA world. His decision to prioritize self-care and healing is commendable, considering the toll his grueling schedule has taken on his body. The absence of Adesanya from the octagon will undoubtedly leave a void in the middleweight division, but it also opens up opportunities for rising stars like Strickland. Only time will tell when we will witness Adesanya’s return, but when he does come back, the entire MMA community will be eagerly awaiting his next move.
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