Israel Adesanya: Life and Family History
Full Name: Israel Mobolaji Temitayo Odunayo Oluwafemi Owolabi Adesanya
Nickname: “The Last Stylebender”
Born: July 22, 1989
Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian-New Zealander
Profession: Mixed Martial Artist (MMA), Former UFC Middleweight Champion
Early Life & Background:
- Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and raised in a well-educated family.
- Father: Oluwafemi Adesanya – An accountant.
- Mother: Taiwo Adesanya – A nurse.
- Moved to Ghana with his family for a short time before settling in Rotorua, New Zealand, at age 10.
- Was bullied in school, which later inspired him to learn martial arts for self-defense.
Kickboxing & MMA Career:
- Started Kickboxing: Inspired by the anime Naruto and Avatar: The Last Airbender, which influenced his nickname “The Last Stylebender.”
- Kickboxing Record: 75-5 before transitioning to MMA.
- MMA Debut: 2012.
- Joined UFC: 2018 and quickly became a top contender.
UFC Achievements:
- UFC Middleweight Champion (185 lbs): Won the undisputed title in 2019 by defeating Robert Whittaker.
- Title Defenses (5 total): Defended his belt against fighters like Paulo Costa, Marvin Vettori, Jared Cannonier, and Robert Whittaker (rematch).
- Light Heavyweight Attempt: Moved up to 205 lbs but lost to Jan Błachowicz in 2021.
- Lost & Regained Title: Lost to Alex Pereira in 2022 but won it back in 2023 with a dramatic knockout.
- Lost Title Again: Defeated by Sean Strickland in 2023.
Fighting Style & Legacy:
- Known for his elite striking, precise counterattacks, and flashy footwork.
- One of the most dominant middleweights in UFC history.
- First African-born two-time UFC Middleweight Champion.
Personal Life & Interests:
- Big fan of anime, video games, and dance (often dances during his walkouts).
- Close friends with fellow Nigerian UFC champions Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou.
- Has faced controversies, including trash talk and bold celebrations.
Recent Updates:
- Currently on a break from MMA after losing the title to Sean Strickland in 2023.
- Expected to make a comeback in 2024 or 2025.
