Israel Adesanya announces his intention to retire from kickboxing

After his rematch with Brazilian mixed martial artist Alex Pereira, former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya declared his intention to retire from the sport.
The Nigerian boxing star lost his title last year after Pereira, a seasoned foe, handed him his third defeat of his career. Israel Adesanya must defeat Pereira at UFC 287 in Miami on April 9 in order to complete his task.

After joining the UFC, Adesanya’s most recent fight, which he ultimately lost, was his first in the middleweight division. If he wins back his title later this year, he still has a lot of work ahead of him.

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The 33-year-old has made it clear that he intends to make a strong effort to finish his career, and that he wants to reclaim his throne as the division’s king.

Only his close friend Conor McGregor earns more money among UFC fighters than Adesanya, who has experienced tremendous growth in the martial arts scene.

After losing both of his kickboxing matches against the Brazilian by decision in the final round, he will be looking for retribution this time. The New Zealander, who was born in Nigeria, still has a 23-2 record.

Adesanya stated during a press conference in Australia prior to his rematch with Pereira that his time in the UFC is running out.
I’ve been in the UFC for five years, right?”

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“I won’t be here in five years, if I’m being completely honest. I have other obligations in my life. I’m really good at this and I love doing it, but I never commit to anything like this because I always know I’ll come out on top.

“So, yes, I believe you ought to leave that location. However, as I mentioned earlier, I have been a member of the UFC for five years. We’ll see how long I stay, but I doubt it will be five years.