Joe Rogan podcast once showed blueprint to Israel Adesanya ‘downfall’
Seven months ago, a loophole in Israel Adesanya's fighting style was discussed in an episode of Joe Rogan's podcast.
Follow Us
Joe Rogan once had a discussion about Israel Adesanya's fighting style (Image via Bloody Elbow/Imago)
Israel Adesanya was once regarded as one of the most dominant champions in UFC middleweight history. However, his recent performances suggest otherwise, as he is struggling to regain his winning momentum. This has led many to wonder about the reasons for his current decline. Interestingly, this topic was discussed in an episode of Joe Rogan’s podcast a few months ago.
UFC color commentator Joe Rogan is also the host of one of the most successful podcast shows in the world. Rogan explores a variety of trending topics, including those related to the UFC community. In one particular episode, Rogan welcomed UFC welterweight fighter Joaquin Buckley and discussed Israel Adesanya’s recent struggles in the promotion. Buckley offered an intriguing perspective on the situation.
Izzy is able to be finished in certain positions that he put himself in because there’s a lot of things that he do because of his reach. He leans back a lot to try to counter away from punches, right? But if you can find that angle and you can see the holes open in there because his body is there, his chin is available, you know, you can find that punch.
Joaquin Buckley via JRE MMA Show #132
Months later, Buckley revisited his analysis on social media while commenting on Adesanya’s recent fight. The former UFC middleweight champion went up against Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia last weekend, as he sought to regain his former glory. Notably, the fight demonstrated that ‘Izzy’ lost in a manner similar to what Buckley had previously analyzed about Adesanya’s fighting style.
Once I gave my take on how to beat Izzy on JRE I feel like Buddy career has never been the same 🤦🏿♂️
— Joaquin New Mansa Buckley (@Newmansa94) February 2, 2025
Congrats to Nassourdine maybe we run it back in the future 👊🏿 pic.twitter.com/SliEBcQVCe
Over the years, Adesanya has faced and triumphed over several formidable challenges in the UFC, relying on his orthodox fighting style. Even strong opponents like Alex Pereira have faltered against the Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter.
However, the #5 ranked French middleweight prospect came prepared for what would be one of his toughest challenges against Adesanya. When Imavov spotted a gap in Izzy’s guard, the French star seized the opportunity.
Israel Adesanya’s coach points out the ‘mistake’ they made against Nassourdine Imavov
In the aftermath of Israel Adesanya’s defeat against Nassourdine Imavov, the UFC community had a lively topic to discuss. Opinions on the Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter varied significantly. While many criticized Adesanya and claimed he was past his prime, others expressed continued confidence in the former UFC middleweight champion.
Along with several prominent figures in the UFC community, Adesanya’s coach also spoke out regarding his fighter’s defeat at UFC Saudi Arabia. In an exclusive interview with Submission Radio, coach Mike Angove pointed out one mistake made by Adesanya that influenced the fight’s outcome. He noted that the alleged eye poke before the TKO disrupted Adesanya’s concentration.
We made a mistake. Nassourdine, I would say, with his team recognized when we made that mistake and they jumped on it, which means they have to have planned. You’ve got to congratulate them on that. Izzy got poked in the eye. There was a break, and Izzy didn’t want to take the break and was just keen to get on with it, in doing that he didn’t reset as you normally would and create some space. That means you’re still in the firing zone.
Mike Angove via Submission Radio (Check from 1:05)
As for Adesanya, the Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter accepted his loss to Imavov with a sporting attitude. However, there remains uncertainty about his next move within the promotion, as this was his third consecutive loss. He abruptly dismissed any thoughts of leaving the UFC, stating that he plans to come back soon. Now, it remains to be seen when and against whom he will compete next.
Related:
Stay Updated!
Nilaav Gogoi
(596 Articles Published)