Israel Adesanya’s legendary career has hit a critical turning point after his fourth defeat in five fights, suffering a devastating second-round TKO loss to Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Fight Night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The former UFC middleweight champion, once nearly untouchable in the octagon, now faces serious questions about his future in the sport.
Adesanya Stunned by Imavov’s Power
Adesanya (24-5) started the fight as the favorite, using his signature striking to control the first round.
However, just 30 seconds into the second round, Imavov (16-4) landed a vicious right hand to Adesanya’s chin, sending him crashing into the fence.
The French fighter followed up with a powerful left hand, leaving Adesanya unable to recover.
Referee Marc Goddard briefly allowed the fight to continue, but as Adesanya rolled onto his stomach and covered up, the official had no choice but to stop the fight—marking another brutal setback for “The Last Stylebender.”
Imavov Calls for Title Shot
For Imavov, this victory is the biggest of his career, putting him firmly in UFC title contention. Speaking after the fight, he declared:
“I said it all week long, that I was in perfect shape and I proved it tonight. I proved I was a better striker and now, the real bonus for me is going to be fighting for the belt.”
“There is no doubt I am ready for the belt. Four victories in one year—the record speaks for itself.”
Imavov now positions himself alongside Khamzat Chimaev as one of the leading contenders in the middleweight division, with champion Dricus Du Plessis set to defend his title against Sean Strickland at UFC 312 next weekend.
Adesanya Reflects on His Future
For Adesanya, 35, this loss comes after a nearly year-long break following his shocking title defeat to Sean Strickland in September 2023.
After returning in August 2024 and losing to Du Plessis by submission, he had hoped to get back on track with a win against Imavov—but instead finds himself at a crossroads.
Speaking in the UFC post-fight show, Adesanya admitted he needs time to reassess:
“I have to chill and then think about things. I will relax first for a little bit, just help the teammates who have fights coming up and see what I want to do.”
“I was going to do that anyway, but now I’m forced to. Shoutout to Nassourdine for that.”
His recent struggles are particularly shocking given that he was once known for his incredible durability, never having been knocked down in MMA until his loss to Alex Pereira in 2022.
Now, he has suffered two knockouts in less than three years.
Dana White Defends Adesanya’s Performance
Despite Adesanya’s 1-4 skid, UFC CEO Dana White is not writing him off just yet. He believes Adesanya fought well in the first round, but simply got caught in the second.
“I thought Izzy looked incredible until he got caught. He was picking him apart, staying on the outside, takedown defense was incredible, chopping that calf kick.”
“That whole round, he couldn’t have had a better first round, but then he got caught.”
While Adesanya appeared frustrated with the stoppage, he ultimately left the Octagon without incident.
What’s Next for Adesanya?
With Du Plessis vs. Strickland headlining UFC 312, and Khamzat Chimaev waiting in the wings, Adesanya’s next move is unclear.
Will he take another extended break, reinvent himself, or consider stepping away from the sportentirely?
However, One thing is certain: Israel Adesanya’s future in MMA has never been more uncertain.
