Israel Adesanya explains the importance of a career break and reveals goals for 'final chapter'

Israel Adesanya at the UFC weigh-in (Photo: Instagram/UFC)

PUBLICITY:

The middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) title fight against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305 on August 17th marks Israel Adesanya's return approximately 11 months after his defeat and loss of the title to Sean Strickland , following his decision to take a brief hiatus from his career. A hiatus that, according to the former champion, was necessary and beneficial.

In an interview with South African presenter Sias Du Plessis (not related to the middleweight champion), Israel Adesanya spoke about the lessons he learned during his brief career break.

“The hiatus was definitely necessary. Physically, mentally and even spiritually I needed a break not only from fighting, but also from training camps and the constant challenges we put our bodies through as warriors. It was good for me to just switch off from the game. I learned a lot during the time I was away. I've always been a very patient guy, but I've become even more patient, with more clarity. I’m sure of what I want to achieve in this last chapter of my game,” he said.

Israel Adesanya reiterated that becoming the middleweight champion is not his main goal in his career comeback, but rather accumulating achievements and opponents.

“I’m a two-time middleweight champion. Being three times will be cool, but it's not the main goal. For me, the goal is to beat warriors from different codes, different nations, great fighters like Dricus. Delete them, put them in my cartel and move on to the next one until it's gone. The belt has always been cool, but the journey to it is the main thing. I just liked hitting others,” he stated.

Finally, 'Izzy' responded to how he intends to deal with Dricus Du Plessis ' physical strength . The Nigerian didn't seem too worried.

“I faced the biggest middleweight, Alex Pereira, and I knocked him out. How will I deal with Dricus' unique style? I will simply be unique too. I will never stray from my style or my rhythm again. I'm going to do what I do best, which is beat others spectacularly. I've done that my whole career and I want to go back. I’m not worried about the result, but about the journey”, he concluded.

Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya will face off for the middleweight title in the main event of UFC 305 on August 17th in Perth, Australia.

Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.