43
Former UFC middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya is contemplating the end of his legendary career, though he remains uncertain about exactly when he’ll retire.
At 35, the New Zealand-born fighter, known as “The Last Stylebender,” spoke candidly about his future in the sport during an appearance on the FLAGRANT Podcast.
Adesanya, who recently faced a tough loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August, is well aware of the physical and mental toll that a decade-long career can take.
“I’ve said this already, with what I’ve already done in this game, a lot of people don’t even get to the belt, get to the UFC.”
“I’ve done it twice. Still the only two-time UFC middleweight champion.”
His 2023 loss to du Plessis came after a stunning defeat to Sean Strickland a year earlier, when Adesanya lost his title in a decision that surprised many fans.
While the 35-year-old is not currently booked for a fight, there have been rumors about a potential matchup against Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia next year.
Isreal Adesanya admits that while he still has aspirations in the sport, he is becoming increasingly mindful of the risks.
“You’ve got to break up with fighting before fighting breaks up with you,” he said.
“When will I? I don’t know… I’m 35 now. I know I’m over the halfway point and I’m definitely a few years away, maybe three years away. But who knows? I know I don’t want to be fighting at 40.”
Even with retirement looming on the horizon, Adesanya remains proud of his legacy in the sport, hinting he has a few more goals to achieve before he hangs his gloves for good.
“If what I’ve already done won’t make me happy, what will? I’m happy but I’m not content.”
