Israel Adesanya becomes the first MMA fighter to sign with PUMA


Israel Adesanya becomes the first MMA fighter to sign with PUMA

WhatsApp Image 2020 09 18 at 6.42.07 AM

Israel Adesanya signs with PUMA

UFC star Israel Adesanya is now the first MMA fighter to become a Puma ambassador. The terms of the deal are not disclosed. 

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The undefeated middleweight champion, who is set to put his 19-0 record and belt on the line Sept. 26 against Paulo Costa, revealed on social media today that he is now a Puma-backed athlete. The news was first reported by ESPN MMA insider Ariel Helwani. 

Israel Adesanya signs with PUMA 

Puma has been active as of late with signing major sports stars. Aside from Adesanya, the German athletic powerhouse announced it added PSG star Neymar Jr. to its roster on Sept. 12. The signing confirmed speculation that circulated in late August that he was leaving Nike, his 15-year long sponsor, for Puma. 

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Pancho Gutstein, general manager of Puma Oceania, said the company is thrilled to partner with the undefeated champ. 

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“We’re ecstatic to be welcoming one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed athletes to the Puma family,” Gutstein said in a statement. “Not only is Israel a fearless and incredibly talented athlete, but his passion for dancing, fashion, anime, and his memorable personality makes him a standout individual to represent the brand.” 

Puma’s addition of Adesanya comes two months after the UFC stated it was parting ways with the organization’s apparel and footwear sponsor, Reebok. Once the Reebok deal is up in March 2021, PUMA will take over. 

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