Israel Adesanya

Fighter Information

Israel Mobolaji Temitayo Odunayo Oluwafemi Owolabi Adesanya (born 22 July 1989) is a Nigerian-New Zealand professional mixed martial artist, former kickboxer and boxer. As a mixed martial artist, he currently competes in the Middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is a former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion. His early exposure to fighting and martial arts was influenced by his experiences during childhood, leading him to pursue a successful career marked by numerous accolades and tournament victories.
Full Name :
Israel Mobolaji Temitayo Odunayo Oluwafemi Owolabi Adesanya
Birthdate :
22 July 1989
Birthplace :
Lagos, Nigeria
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
193
Weight (kg) :
84
Residence :
Auckland, New Zealand
Nationality :
Nigerian
Parents :
Oluwafemi Adesanya (Father), Taiwo Adesanya (Mother)
Education :
Rotorua Boys' High School (High School), Universal College of Learning (College)
Career Started :
2012
Current Team :
City Kickboxing
Rank Belt :
Purple belt (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
Reach :
203
Active Status :
From - 2010, To - Present
Ring Name :
The Last Stylebender
Stance :
Kickboxing
Sponsor :
Puma

Biography

Israel Adesanya is a highly skilled UFC fighter known for his striking accuracy and tactical approach in the octagon. With a record of 24 wins and 5 losses, he has held the title of UFC Middleweight Champion and is celebrated for overcoming fierce competitors. Background in kickboxing and a supportive family life shaped his career. His net worth, estimated between $2 million to $4 million, is enhanced by fight earnings and endorsements. Uncover more about his path and achievements.

Early Life

Israel Adesanya had a dynamic early life that set the foundation for his successful career in combat sports. At the age of 10, he relocated to New Zealand, where he grew up in a family that valued sports, heavily influenced by his mother, a former bodybuilder. This environment sparked his interest in athletics, leading him to initially pursue kickboxing. His dedication paid off as he compiled an impressive record of 75 wins and 4 losses in kickboxing competitions.

During his formative years, Adesanya also focused on academics, studying computer graphic design for three years at a university. However, his passion for fighting ultimately led him to fully commit to a career in mixed martial arts (MMA).

He began his professional MMA expedition in 2012, culminating in his octagon debut on February 11, 2018, where he displayed the skills developed throughout his early life.

Family Life

Israel Adesanya places great importance on his family life, nurturing a strong bond with his siblings, particularly his younger brother, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout his fighting career.

He maintains a level of privacy regarding personal matters, which allows his family to remain out of the public eye.

Adesanya has often expressed deep admiration for his mother, who has been a notable influence in his life, encouraging his pursuits in both fighting and education.

The values of discipline and resolve instilled by his family play a vital role in shaping his fighting style, reflecting the strong familial support that has contributed to his success inside the octagon.

Career

Israel Adesanya, widely recognized as “The Last Stylebender,” has carved an impressive career in mixed martial arts with a record of 24 wins and 5 losses, including 16 knockouts.

A former UFC Middleweight Champion, he reclaimed the title by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 287.

Adesanya is celebrated for his striking abilities, maintaining a striking accuracy of 48% and averaging 4.02 notable strikes per minute.

Throughout his career, he has faced challenging opponents such as Robert Whittaker and Sean Strickland, though he recently suffered a loss to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305.

Adesanya’s contributions to the sport have garnered him numerous accolades, including MMA Fighter of the Year and Performance of the Night awards.

Net Worth

Israel Adesanya’s net worth is estimated to be between $2 million to $4 million.

He has reportedly earned over $9 million in fight purses from his UFC matches, with notable payouts coming from title bouts and main events.

His income is further supplemented by a range of endorsements, including partnerships with brands like Reebok and Puma.

Moreover, Adesanya has ventured into media and entertainment projects, providing him with extra revenue streams outside of his fighting career.

His marketability as a former champion and popular fighter has also increased his earning potential through merchandise sales and public appearances.