Israel Adesanya refutes ‘washed’ claims as fans starve for superstar’s win in UFC
Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has been facing intense scrutiny since his knockout loss in UFC Saudi Arabia.
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UFC superstar Israel Adesanya reacts to the criticism surrounding him (Image via Imago)
Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter Israel Adesanya once reigned as one of the most dominant champions in recent UFC history. However, following his last few performances, Adesanya is facing intense scrutiny from many fans. Interestingly, the former UFC middleweight champion has recently addressed the backlash directed at him.
Israel Adesanya enjoys significant popularity within the UFC community, largely due to his candid and open personality. Recently, the Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter shared a video on his YouTube channel where he responded to various questions from the public. During this session, ‘Izzy’ was asked how he feels when fans claim that he is no longer relevant as an MMA fighter.
I don’t (feel washed out). Like for me again I think I’ve answered this recently or previously. They call me washed but how you going to call me washed when you haven’t been in laundry, like you haven’t even gone dirty, what have you done?
Israel Adesanya via YouTube (@FREESTYLEBENDER)
In response to the question, Adesanya seemed to mock it. One reason for this attitude is his successful UFC career, during which the Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter achieved numerous accolades. Notably, since his promotional debut in 2018, Adesanya has overcome every significant challenge in the UFC middleweight division up until 2023.
He has only suffered two defeats throughout that phase: one against Jan Blachowicz in a light heavyweight match and another against Alex Pereira. However, Adesanya’s career took a significant downturn after he lost his UFC middleweight title to Sean Strickland at UFC 293.
Following that defeat, ‘Izzy’ suffered two more consecutive losses in the promotion. Given his recent performance at UFC Saudi Arabia against Nassourdine Imavov, many people within the UFC community and fans believe that Adesanya may struggle to make a comeback.
Israel Adesanya shares a heartfelt message for Dustin Poirier
Currently, there is considerable buzz surrounding UFC lightweight veteran Dustin Poirier, who is seeking a retirement fight within the promotion. Many netizens are feeling emotional, as Poirier’s last UFC fight may be approaching. Additionally, as a tribute, they are sharing highlights of the ‘Diamond’ online.
Former UFC middleweight champion ‘Izzy’ came across a post about Poirier. Interestingly, being known for his sportsmanlike nature, Adesanya took the time to write a message to the UFC lightweight veteran. The Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter acknowledged Poirier’s impressive accomplishments and emphasized the importance of respecting his achievements.
Whenever I said UFC 243 was my first tittle defense, some get salty. I consider my “Interim” tittle win a tittle win, any fight after that is considered a tittle defense and a unification. Two things can be true at the same time 🧠. @DustinPoirier and I won our belts on the same night! “Undisputed” or not he was thee champion, y’all can’t take that away from him. Head high my guy, let’s strive!
Israel Adesanya via X (@stylebender)
Whenever I said UFC 243 was my first tittle defense, some get salty. I consider my “Interim” tittle win a tittle win, any fight after that is considered a tittle defense and a unification. Two things can be true at the same time 🧠. @DustinPoirier and I won our belts on the same… https://t.co/aVrJDSlb7X
— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) February 20, 2025
Adesanya acknowledged one significant accomplishment in Poirier’s UFC career. ‘Izzy’ noted that although the ‘Diamond’ was unable to become the 155 lbs champion, his interim lightweight title win should be considered equivalent. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how soon these two legends return to the octagon.
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Nilaav Gogoi
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