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

Israel adesanya weighing in at the UFC (Photo: Instagram/UFC)

The middleweight belt fight (up to 83,9 kg) against Dricus Du Plessis No. UFC 305, on August 17th, marks the return of Israel adesanya about 11 months after the defeat and loss of the belt to Sean Strickland and decision to take a brief career hiatus. This hiatus, which, according to the former champion, was necessary and was beneficial.

In an interview with South African presenter Sias Du Plessis (not related to the middleweight champion), Israel adesanya spoke about the lessons learned during the 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 he once again declared that becoming middleweight champion is not the main objective in resuming his career, but collecting 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' answered how he intends to deal with the physical strength of Dricus Du Plessis. 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 e Israel adesanya face each other for the middleweight belt in the main fight of UFC 305, on August 17th, in Perth, Australia.