Israel Adesanya Earns Respect from Rival For Putting ‘Reputation on Line’ with Joe Pyfer Fight

Former champion Dricus Du Plessis talks about Israel Adesanya fighting Joe Pyfer in the main event of UFC Seattle.

Israel Adesanya Earns Respect from Rival For Putting ‘Reputation on Line’ with Joe Pyfer Fight

Dricus Du Plessis credits Israel Adesanya for fighting Joe Pyfer (via X)

In Short
  • Israel Adesanya is set to fight rising middleweight Joe Pyfer in UFC Seattle, despite a three-fight losing streak.
  • Former champion Dricus Du Plessis praised Adesanya for taking the fight, highlighting his willingness to put his reputation on the line.
  • Adesanya aims to remain competitive in MMA, targeting fewer than ten fights before potentially retiring by 2028.

In his prime, Israel Adesanya was virtually unstoppable, taking on every challenger the UFC placed before him without hesitation or excuses. The former middleweight champion defended his title five times, staying remarkably active while consistently delivering elite performances outside. Recently, however, the veteran has endured consecutive losses, marking one of the toughest stretches of his decorated career.

Despite setbacks and growing criticism, Adesanya remains motivated, determined to reclaim momentum and prove he still belongs among the best. Recently, the UFC announced his comeback fight against rising middleweight Joe Pyfer in the main event of UFC Seattle. Following the announcement, former champion and old rival Dricus Du Plessis credited Izzy for taking on the challenge. 

Just kudos to Adesanya for giving a guy like Pyfer a chance. He’s not close in the rankings, but it’s an exciting fight for the fans, and that just shows the quality of warrior he is. He’s putting his reputation on the line to fight an up-and-coming guy he doesn’t need to fight. He goes out there and says, ‘I want exciting fights.’

Dricus Du Plessis via Fight Forecast 

Israel Adesanya is currently enduring a difficult three-fight losing streak, suffering a TKO defeat against Nassourdine Imavov in his last outing.  Despite setbacks, fans remain optimistic about the resurgence of the ‘Last Stylebender’, believing he still possesses elite-level skills.

Adesanya has openly embraced a potential gatekeeper role within the competitive middleweight division while actively pursuing another signature victory soon. The former champion revealed he likely has fewer than ten fights remaining, targeting competition consistently through the year 2028.

Confident about his direction, Izzy emphasized staying focused on MMA rather than transitioning into post-retirement boxing exhibitions. Unlike veterans such as Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz, Adesanya insists his competitive legacy will remain strictly inside the octagon. 

On the other hand, Joe Pyfer is energized about facing a former champion and intends to maximize this defining opportunity. The American contender recently sparked controversy with pointed trash talk aimed at Israel Adesanya, drawing significant backlash from fans. Riding an impressive three-fight winning streak, Pyfer is determined to extend his momentum and prove he belongs among elite competition.

Israel Adesanya speaks about the biggest rivalry in his UFC career 

One of the most compelling rivalries in modern mixed martial arts unfolded between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira.  Their rivalry reignited inside the UFC octagon after an intense kickboxing history, where Pereira previously secured a stoppage victory. The Brazilian defeated Adesanya in their first UFC clash, earning a dramatic TKO that stunned fans.

Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira
Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira (via X)

However, Adesanya reclaimed his glory by knocking Pereira out cold in their unforgettable rematch. Following that defeat, Pereira moved up to light heavyweight and continued showcasing terrifying power. Years later, both warriors reflect on their battles with mutual respect and admiration. In a recent interview, Adesanya discussed Pereira’s growth, legacy, and their unforgettable shared journey.

For me it was never really about him, it was always about me. I knew technically I’m the only one to hurt this man multiple times. I’m so proud of what he’s doing now, two-time light heavyweight champ, he’s back on top now. I hope he never loses. I hope he retires undefeated.

Israel Adesanya via Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

In his last bout, Pereira avenged his previous loss to Magomed Ankalaev and reclaimed the light heavyweight title. Now ‘Poatan’ is gunning for a heavyweight fight against Jon Jones for the much-anticipated UFC White House event. If not, ‘Poatan’ will likely defend his 205-pound title next against suitable opposition.

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