Don’t Follow My Footsteps, Israel Adesanya Advices Aspiring Athletes

Israel Adesanya Reveals Path to Professional Fighting and Urges Aspiring Athletes to Forge Their Own Paths

Nigerian-born UFC star Israel Adesanya recently shared the motivation behind his decision to pursue a career in professional fighting. He also encouraged aspiring athletes to create their own paths while drawing inspiration from his journey and that of other celebrated athletes.

During a visit to a Celestial Church of Christ service in Lagos, Adesanya, known as “The Last Stylebender,” revealed that his initial interest in fighting stemmed from a need to defend himself.

Wearing a traditional Celestial garment in a video seen online, Adesanya explained that he realized his potential as a fighter early on, which led him to take up the sport professionally.

Adesanya emphasized the crucial role his father played in his career, acknowledging that he wouldn’t have become a fighter without his father’s support.

When asked why he chose fighting as a profession, Adesanya said, “It’s a long story, but for me, it started with standing up for myself. I learned how to fight, realized I was good at it, and turned it into a career. So far, it has worked out well.”

He also highlighted the importance of faith in his life and career. “Faith is something you need in life. You can’t walk by sight; you have to walk by faith. Faith has guided me through my life, not just my career.

I trust in myself, in a higher power, and in who I am. That belief keeps me steadfast,” he said.

Adesanya further advised aspiring athletes not to follow in his exact footsteps but to create their own paths. “Don’t try to copy what I’ve done. Instead, get inspiration from people like me and use it to further yourself in your own life. Copying someone else’s journey isn’t worth it. If you’re inspired, take that inspiration and apply it to your own path,” he advised.

Despite his recent loss at UFC 305 to South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis, Adesanya received a hero’s welcome when he arrived in Lagos last Wednesday. He also visited his hometown of Esa-Oke in Osun State and enjoyed the Lagos nightlife, sharing glimpses of his outings on Instagram, which caught the attention of fans and celebrities alike.

The UFC 305 bout, which marked the first-ever title clash between two African fighters, held significant historical importance and provided substantial financial rewards for both competitors. According to reports, Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, earned $750,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis received $500,000.