According to MMA legend Israel Adesanya, he may retire after UFC Seattle.

Adesanya in training. Photo: Courtesy of Facebook/UFC

In the event of a collision with Joe Pyfer in the main fight of UFC Seattle , Israel Adesanya steps into the octagon to try to return to winning ways after almost three years of negative results. In this context, the Nigerian has been the target of several speculations about his future in the sport. In a conversation with Kamaru Usman on the latest edition of the 'Pound 4 Pound' podcast this Thursday (26), Triple C stated that next Saturday (28) could be the last performance of the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) in the biggest MMA event in the world.

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According to Cejudo, a negative result against Pyfer would clearly indicate a decline in the Nigerian's career, making retirement the most logical option.

“It depends on how, but I think so (he will retire). When the ship sails, it sails. I think he will realize that it's no longer a question of talent, but of desire. And I say this for myself. Of wanting to do other things with his time, of desiring other things. I think Israel is already at that stage. He is already planning his future. So if he loses or is submitted, I think he will stop,” said Cejudo, who retired after losing to Payton Talbott.

Henry Cejudo says Israel Adesanya will retire if he loses this weekend 👀

(Via @pound4poundshow ) pic.twitter.com/RnQ1sC7AxQ

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 26, 2026

Aware of the need to respond to critics and ensure a longer career, Adesanya has been making changes throughout his preparation. At the event's media day , held last Wednesday (25), the athlete stated that he had distanced himself from social media in order to maintain focus on training.

Adesanya is experiencing an unprecedented moment in his career.

Adesanya was overwhelmed by Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia . Photo: Reproduction X/UFC

Since avenging his loss to Alex Poatan with a beautiful knockout in August 2023, the Nigerian has not managed to win again in MMA. In total, he has only one victory in his last five fights, with three consecutive losses. At 38 years old, Adesanya will face a different type of opponent in Pyfer. While Sean Strickland , Dricus Du Plessis , and Nassourdine Imavov were members of the top tier of the division, the American occupies only the 14th position in the ranking.

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