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Former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya has hinted at a return to the Octagon “soon”, despite rumours of a long absence. After a surprise defeat against Sean Strickland in September, the 34 year old is “taking his time” during his break from fighting.
Adesanya, who has lost two of his last three fights, teased a potential comeback after rumours suggested he could be out for another four years.
These rumours started when Adesanya contemplated taking a break until 2027, but the UFC star has now said that was a joke and criticised fans for believing him. Speaking at Anthony Joshua’s fight against Otto Wallin in Saudi Arabia, Adesanya spoke about his future in the UFC.
He told IFL TV: “I’m taking my time. My last few fights, I had four fights in 14 months as a champion in the UFC, that’s unheard of. Life has forced me to take some time off, and I will, but you will see me soon.
He added: “I said 2027, and the r****** out there thought I actually meant that. But, you’ll see.” Since being knocked out for the first time by Alex Pereira in November 2022, Adesanya has become more realistic about his career.
After his recent defeat to Strickland, Adesanya openly discussed his future and confirmed he’s taking a break. “Before this fight I was very like, ‘I know I’m on the back end of my career, so I want to do as many as I can because I know [when] I’m done with this I’m going to miss it,” he shared.
“I’m trying to do as much as I can. But after this fight, and again, 14 months and four fights, it’s not just the fights, it’s the training and everything. I had injuries going into the Pereira fight, you’ve seen that.
“I don’t make any excuses. Strickland got me on the night because he was the better fighter on the night. He did his work well. He had a good team behind him.”
Strickland is set to defend his title for the first time in January against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297. Paulo Costa and Robert Whittaker, both former rivals of Adesanya, will then compete in UFC 298 on Feb. 17.
Adesanya might return to face the winner, but there are no formal discussions yet. UFC boss Dana White is eager to have his star fighter back, but the ex-champion has said he’s not in a hurry.
