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Israel Adesanya Adopts ‘Retired’ Persona, Teases Risk-Driven Comeback on His Terms

He told a Bangtao Muay Thai Q&A that future bouts would be for enjoyment rather than titles.

Overview

  • He says he now tells people he is retired until they see him on a poster, framing his break as temporary on his timeline.
  • Adesanya states it is no longer about belts for him and that he wants to fight for fun and freedom.
  • He plans a more creative, risk-forward style on return, citing attempts like an Imanari roll as examples he wants to revisit.
  • He declares his rivalry with Alex Pereira over, praises Pereira’s rise as a two-time light-heavyweight champion, and wishes him continued success.
  • He remains unbooked after a Feb. 1 TKO loss to Nassourdine Imavov in Saudi Arabia and continues an extended hiatus.