Israel Adesanya’s retribution arc did not go well, as Dricus Du Plessis defeated him at UFC 305. Izzy wanted his UFC middleweight title back but got submitted in the fourth round. Though ‘The Last Stylebender’ put on a solid performance, it wasn’t enough. According to Izzy’s arch nemesis, Alex Pereira, the Nigerian-born star may not be 100 percent during the fight.
Alex Pereira recently released a video where he talked about his upcoming fight. He also touched upon Adesanya’s recent loss against Du Plessis. In the video, ‘Poatan’ claimed that Izzy might have been injured as he was not throwing leg kicks. Surprisingly, it was the truth, and Adesanya was impressed by ‘Poatan’s assessment.
It’s weird how this guy knows me…it’s like we’ve spent hours studying eachother’s moves and fought multiple times or sumn’. I mean that.
Israel Adesanya via X
Pereira and Adesanya’s rivalry dates back to their Glory Kickboxing days. Soon, the saga continued in the UFC, offering spectators a great story between two warriors. Inside the UFC, both have one victory over each other. After capturing the light heavyweight belt, the Brazilian even called out Izzy to settle the score. However, the former middleweight champion did not intend to continue the feud.
It’s weird how this guy knows me…it’s like we’ve spent hours studying eachother’s moves and fought multiple times or sumn’. I mean that. 🫡 https://t.co/Up7U8DyT2Q
— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) August 25, 2024
Aside from the rivalry, both fighters have shown incredible mutual respect towards one another. Spending so much time fighting each other, it shouldn’t be surprising to see Pereira point out a hole in Izzy’s fight. Nevertheless, as usual, Adesanya took the loss with grace and is currently having a blast in his home country.
‘Son of Soil’ Israel Adesanya visits his home country Nigeria
Israel Adesanya was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and then moved to New Zealand at the age of 10. He discovered kickboxing and MMA in New Zealand. However, Adesanya never forgot where he came from. The fighter greatly respects his ancestors and has a tattoo of the African continent on his chest.
Israel Adesanya visits his native people in Nigeria (via Imago)
After his latest loss against Dricus Du Plessis, Adesanya returned to Lagos to meet his people. As expected, the fighter was welcomed by many fans, who inspired him. Izzy also posted a few pictures of him enjoying his time in Lagos.
Energy never dies, it can be passed on and amplified. Bless the future, bless my people, their flame inspired me!
Israel Adesanya via X
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Energy never dies, it can be passed on and amplified ❤️🔥.Bless the future, bless my people, their flame inspired me! pic.twitter.com/AmK2KBc1A5— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) August 25, 2024
The people of Nigeria🇳🇬 love Israel Adesanya
He’s in Lagos right now and can’t go anywhere without shuttin the place down😂 pic.twitter.com/6toqBkYF4m— DJ MurkCity (@myrksitymma) August 25, 2024
Initially, Izzy had plans to visit Lagos to celebrate his title win over DDP. However, it didn’t go as planned. ‘The Last Stylebender’ seemed not to be affected much by the loss and has already promised a strong comeback. Nevertheless, seeing Izzy participating in a non-title fight after such a long time would be interesting.
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