The fighting future of Israel Adesanya, the former UFC middleweight champion, has been unclear since his knockout loss to Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia. However, there`s positive news from Adesanya`s head coach.
After experiencing three losses in a row, and four losses out of his last five fights, “The Last Stylebender” has not publicly announced whether he will continue his career in the octagon or retire. Adesanya attended UFC 314 to support his teammate Alexander Volkanovski in regaining the featherweight title. Eugene Bareman, head coach at City Kickboxing, mentioned a brief conversation he had with Adesanya in Miami.
Bareman told Submission Radio that in a short conversation in Volkanovski’s locker room, Adesanya expressed his intention to fight again. The coach shared that Adesanya is saying he wants to fight again and feels ready to return to the octagon.
Bareman explained that their current discussions are focused on whether Adesanya should fight again, if he feels motivated to do so, and if he still has the inner drive. They are not yet discussing specific opponents but are first ensuring Adesanya`s readiness and desire to compete.
Following an impressive six title defenses, Adesanya lost his middleweight title to Alex Pereira at UFC 281 in November 2022 via TKO. He then regained it in a victory that was recognized as MMA Fighting’s 2023 Knockout of the Year, just five months later at UFC 287.
Since reclaiming the title, Adesanya has suffered a clear decision loss to Sean Strickland and stoppage losses to both Dricus du Plessis and Imavov, despite showing strong performances in the initial phases of these fights.
Bareman believes Adesanya`s capabilities in the octagon are evident, but sees him as someone who aims to reach the top again and be the best globally. The main question is whether Adesanya is willing to undertake that challenging journey once more.
Bareman stated he is patient and comfortable with whatever decision Adesanya makes. He acknowledged Adesanya`s significant achievements in the sport. However, he also pointed out Adesanya`s recent record of three losses in the last four fights. Bareman highlighted the immense commitment required to compete at the highest level, referencing their close friend Alexander Volkanovski`s incredible work ethic as an example, even as Volkanovski is the same age or possibly older than Adesanya.
Bareman emphasized that with such dedication as Volkanovski`s, age becomes less of a barrier. He expressed disbelief at those who doubted Volkanovski and uses his work ethic as the standard. This level of commitment is what Adesanya needs to consider, especially given the demanding nature of dedicating oneself as intensely as Volkanovski, which is a significant undertaking for any fighter, particularly one potentially nearing the end of their career.
