Comebacks are as common as cauliflower ears in MMA. Some returns ignite more excitement than others. Enter Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion ready to reclaim his throne. His upcoming fight at UFC 305 against Dricus Du Plessis has garnered some serious attention.Â
Israel Adesanya opened up about his time away from the octagon at the recent UFC 305 presser. The break, it seems, has done wonders for his fighting spirit. He gave props to his teammates at City Kickboxing to inspire him to make a sensational return.
I got to see my homies like Carlos, Kevin, even now, the young guys… They are starting to get into the UFC. And seeing them enjoying the little things, I was that kid, bright eyes and everything. Seeing them, kinda reignites the flame, and also taking the time off did that for me.
Israel Adesanya via UFC 305 On-Sale Press Conference
Israel Adesanya’s layoff seems to have been a blessing in disguise. Sometimes, stepping away can bring newfound clarity and motivation. As said by the ‘Stylebender’, Carlos Ulberg and others have inspired him to take the next step. Adesanya’s return at UFC 305 promises to be more than just another fight. It’s a chance for redemption, a shot at reclaiming lost glory.Â
Adesanya last fought at UFC 293 against Sean Strickland. ‘Tarzan’ went on to get the upset win in a five-round matchup to become the new middleweight champion. Dricus Du Plessis dethroned Strickland at UFC 297. Now, the two rivals will meet at UFC 305 with the middleweight title on the line.Â
Israel Adesanya’s initial plan to return to Octagon in 2027
Fighter retirements often feel more like extended vacations. Israel Adesanya, however, seemed determined to redefine the concept of a hiatus. The former UFC middleweight champion had dropped a bombshell back in 2023. Adesanya announced his potential return to the Octagon in 2027.
Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis (via MMA Fighting)Adesanya’s declaration came during an interview with The MacLife. He addressed swirling rumors about his future in typical Izzy fashion. The Kiwi fighter had addressed rumors about his return to the Octagon. He gave a very committed answer about when he would be back.
I was getting so many messages. I woke up and was getting tagged in so many things. I’m not dead – I’m not retiring. I mean, calm the f*ck down. I’m alive. 2027. Look for the return, I’ll see you then.
Israel Adesanya via The MacLife
Adesanya seemed to be embracing the concept of a sabbatical. This decision came on the heels of his surprising loss to Sean Strickland. That defeat cost him the middleweight title he had just reclaimed from Alex Pereira. But the recent news showcased that fighters like Adesanya just can’t live without fighting. They have trained their whole lives, and to take such a huge vacation apparently doesn’t suit them.
