In a candid and heartfelt revelation, former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has reshaped the narrative surrounding one of combat sports' most intense modern rivalries. During a public Q&A session at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA in Thailand in early 2025, 'The Last Stylebender' spoke openly about his storied history with Brazilian powerhouse Alex Pereira, offering unexpected praise and a fresh perspective on their fierce competition.
From Rivalry to Respect: Adesanya's Emotional Revelation
The atmosphere was charged as fans and fellow fighters listened intently to Adesanya's reflections. He stated that his four-fight series with Pereira, spanning both kickboxing and mixed martial arts, profoundly shaped a significant chapter of his life. Adesanya explained that the challenges posed by Pereira forced him to evolve, not only as a fighter within the cage but as a person outside of it. Despite the dramatic highs and lows—including a brutal knockout loss—Adesanya made a crucial distinction: there was never genuine hatred. For the New Zealander, this rivalry was always a crucible for self-improvement.
"It was never really about him," Adesanya reflected calmly. "It was about me. I knew I could always touch him." This introspection highlights a mindset focused on internal mastery rather than external animosity.
A Rivalry Forged in Fire: The Four-Fight Saga
The history between these two warriors is etched in combat sports lore. Their first two encounters occurred in the kickboxing ring, where Pereira held the advantage. The rivalry then transitioned to the UFC's Octagon, adding new layers of drama.
In their first MMA meeting at UFC 281 in November 2022, Pereira snatched the middleweight crown from Adesanya with a stunning fifth-round knockout at Madison Square Garden in New York. It was a devastating moment for 'Izzy'. However, displaying remarkable resilience, Adesanya orchestrated a spectacular comeback just five months later. At UFC 287 in April 2023 in Miami, he knocked Pereira out in the second round to reclaim his title in one of the year's most memorable moments.
With Pereira's subsequent successful move up to the light heavyweight division, Adesanya's admiration has only grown. "I hope he never loses," Adesanya declared. "I hope he retires undefeated." This sentiment from a former rival underscores a deep-seated respect forged through shared struggle at the highest level.
Looking Ahead: Freedom Over Belts for Adesanya
During the same engaging session, Adesanya also addressed widespread speculation about his own fighting future. He shared anecdotes about how people in Auckland frequently stop him to ask if he has retired.
Adesanya now jokes with them, saying he is retired—at least until his name is officially announced on a fight poster again. He revealed a significant shift in his motivation. "It's not about belts anymore," he stated plainly. "I've got two shiny belts at home."
For the former champion, the next phase is about rediscovering the pure joy of competition. He expressed a desire for freedom—to fight without the immense pressure that comes with championship pursuits, to take creative risks, and to enjoy the sport with the same passion he had before becoming a global superstar. Titles are no longer the driving force; the love for the game is.
This new chapter for Israel Adesanya, defined by respect for a legendary rival and a pursuit of personal fulfillment, promises to be as compelling as his reign as champion.
