Israel Adesanya, at the age of 34, stepped into the realm of professional MMA in 2012, accompanied by a rich background in kickboxing that spans numerous years. With over a decade’s worth of experience, Adesanya, feeling the physical toll on his body, is cognizant that his retirement is drawing near.
His recent defeat to Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in September 2024, resulting in the forfeiture of his middleweight title, prompted Adesanya to declare a hiatus from the relentless world of fighting. Initially, in a lighthearted manner, he hinted at a comeback in 2027, only to clarify later that it was nothing more than a jest. Remarkably, ‘The Last Stylebender’ has engaged in five bouts since the commencement of 2022, a noteworthy achievement, particularly for a reigning champion.
At this pivotal stage in his career, the 34-year-old has shifted his focus from merely accumulating fights to prioritizing high-quality, impactful contests.
“This time off is different. People take two years off. I’m not doing that,” Adesanya emphasized on his YouTube channel. “Four fights in 14 months. I know I’m on the back end of my career. When I’m done, I’ll miss it. It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality. When I fight, it’s going to be quality, not quantity.”
While Adesanya concentrates on securing top-tier matchups, the identity of his next opponent remains uncertain. Possibilities include facing the winner of the Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis bout at UFC 297 for the middleweight title or potentially making a return to the 205lbs division for a trilogy with Alex Pereira, setting the stage for his second attempt at becoming a two-division champion. Regardless, fervent MMA enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate Adesanya’s much-anticipated return to the octagon this year.
Sporting a professional record of 24-3, Adesanya suffered a decisive loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 293, relinquishing his hard-earned title. Following a setback against Alex Pereira at UFC 281 in November 2022, the New Zealand-born fighter displayed resilience, orchestrating an impressive comeback with a TKO victory over the same opponent at UFC 287 to reclaim his coveted title. However, the ecstasy was short-lived as he found himself conceding the title once again to Strickland at UFC 293.
Adesanya’s illustrious career is punctuated by significant victories over formidable opponents, including Robert Whittaker (twice), Anderson Silva, Paulo Costa, Yoel Romero, and Jared Cannonier, among others. These victories stand as testament to his prowess and mark his indelible imprint on the landscape of professional MMA.
The intricate narrative of Adesanya’s career underscores the rollercoaster ride that defines the life of a professional fighter. From the pinnacle of triumph to the depths of defeat, Adesanya’s journey exemplifies the unforgiving nature of the sport. The decision to take a hiatus reflects not only a tactical consideration but also a keen awareness of the limited time remaining in his storied career.
The witty remark about returning in 2027, followed by a clarification, provides a glimpse into Adesanya’s personality. It reveals a fighter who, despite the intense physical demands of the sport, maintains a sense of humor and self-awareness. The subsequent commitment to focusing on quality over quantity echoes a mature understanding of his position in the sport. Adesanya’s acknowledgment that he is on the “back end” of his career adds a layer of introspection, a recognition that time is a finite resource in the world of professional athletics.
As Adesanya navigates the uncertainties surrounding his next opponent, the options on the table underscore the strategic considerations that come with his status as a former champion. The potential bout against the winner of Strickland vs. Du Plessis signifies a quest to reclaim the middleweight throne. On the other hand, the prospect of returning to the 205lbs division for a trilogy with Alex Pereira unveils a desire to etch his name deeper into the annals of MMA history as a two-division champion.
In retrospect, Adesanya’s career has been a tapestry woven with triumphs and setbacks. The victory over Pereira at UFC 287, reclaiming the title, exemplifies the resilience and skill that define Adesanya as a fighter. Yet, the subsequent loss to Strickland at UFC 293 serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of success in the unforgiving world of mixed martial arts.
As Adesanya’s journey unfolds, the anticipation surrounding his return builds. MMA enthusiasts are poised to witness not just another fight but a manifestation of Adesanya’s commitment to delivering quality performances. His legacy, already adorned with victories over some of the sport’s most formidable names, continues to evolve, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of professional MMA.
