Israel Adesanya Vows to Never Return Once He Retires From MMA

Former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is determined to leave the fight game on his own terms and has vowed never to make a comeback once he walks away. Speaking on his YouTube channel, in comments reported by MMA Fighting, Adesanya explained that he refuses to become one of the many combat sports figures who struggle to transition into post-retirement life.

“I love the adrenaline, but I guess people have a hard time leaving this life,” Adesanya said. “When they get done, they may come out of retirement because they don’t know what to do with themselves. I never want to be that guy, so once I’m done, I’m f*cking done.” To satisfy his appetite for excitement once his fighting days are over, Adesanya mentioned wanting to try other high-risk pursuits, such as running with the bulls or entering the World Series of Poker.

Now 37 years old with over 16 years of professional combat sports experience, Adesanya currently finds himself in a four-fight skid, which includes recent defeats against Joe Pyfer and Nassourdine Imavov. Despite the tough stretch, he remains regarded as one of the greatest competitors in 185-pound history.

Looking ahead, Adesanya expressed excitement about having more free time once he steps away. He noted that during his championship reign, he had to decline two major movie roles to fulfill his title defense obligations. With a reduced fighting schedule of about twice a year instead of four, new entertainment opportunities are emerging, and Adesanya added that he continues to receive guidance from UFC legend Georges St-Pierre.