Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has declared that he will not return to professional fighting after eventually announcing his retirement.
According to The PUNCH, the Nigerian-born mixed martial artist made the disclosure during a conversation with fellow fighter Alexander Volkanovski on his YouTube channel.
Adesanya, 37, explained that he had observed several fighters struggle to adjust to life outside combat sports.
The former champion said he wanted to avoid returning to the octagon because of the attention and excitement associated with professional fighting.
Adesanya explains retirement decision
Discussing the challenges of leaving the sport, Adesanya acknowledged that some fighters find it difficult to establish new identities after retirement.
“I never want to be that guy,” he said.
The former middleweight champion explained that fighters sometimes struggle to move beyond the recognition and public attention they receive during their careers.
Although he expects to miss the excitement of competition, Adesanya believes he can pursue other activities without returning to professional fighting.
He suggested exploring adventurous experiences and competitive activities outside mixed martial arts.
UFC star reflects on difficult fighting record
Adesanya’s comments come after a difficult period in his fighting career.
The former champion has lost his last four bouts, including defeats to Joe Pyfer, Nassourdine Imavov and Dricus du Plessis.
His last victory came against Alex Pereira in 2023, when he reclaimed the UFC middleweight championship with a knockout.
Despite the recent setbacks, Adesanya has not announced a retirement date.
He remains one of the most recognisable African fighters in UFC history, having won the middleweight title twice.
His comments clarify his plans for life after fighting rather than signal an immediate retirement announcement.
