Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has vowed never to return to professional fighting once he decides to retire, insisting he wants to avoid becoming one of the fighters who struggle to move on from the sport.
The 37-year-old has endured a difficult run, losing his last four fights, with his three most recent defeats coming by stoppage. His losses include bouts against Joe Pyfer, Nassourdine Imavov and Dricus du Plessis. His last victory was a knockout of Alex Pereira in 2023.
Adesanya discussed his retirement plans in a YouTube video alongside his friend and training partner, Alexander Volkanovski. Neither fighter revealed a specific timeline for stepping away from competition.
The Nigerian-born New Zealander said he had watched several fighters return after retirement because they struggled to adjust to life outside the spotlight.
“I have seen it in this game. The accolades, the spotlight. When they get done, they may come out of retirement because they do not know what to do with themselves. I never want to be that guy,” Adesanya said.
Although he expects to miss the adrenaline of competition, he is considering other pursuits, including adventurous activities and poker tournaments.
Adesanya also revealed plans to explore acting opportunities, explaining that he previously turned down two major film roles because of commitments to title defences.
He now intends to reduce his fighting schedule to approximately two bouts a year rather than four.
The former champion credited retired UFC great Georges St-Pierre with helping him prepare mentally for life after fighting.
“When he tells me something, I listen. It holds weight. He is retired, and he has done it, clocked the game at the highest level,” Adesanya said.
Adesanya added that he was gaining confidence about life beyond the octagon and no longer felt compelled to keep fighting to define himself.
“I do not need to be the guy who needs to fight,” he said.
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