Israel Adesanya is arguably one of the biggest names in the UFC right now. He successfully carved a name for himself in the promotion. But many people do not know that ‘The Last Stylebender’ once requested UFC president Dana White for a place in the world’s biggest MMA promotion.
The Nigerian-born Kiwi fighter has become the first middleweight fighter to win the division’s top prize twice. He successfully overcame his biggest hurdle in the form of Alex Pereira at UFC 287 with a statement knockout and proved to the world that he can take on any challenge thrown at him.
Israel Adesanya once asked Dana White for a chance to fight in the UFC
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Back in 2015, ‘The Last Stylebender’ sent a text message to the UFC boss Dana White for a chance to fight in his promotion. Adesanya shared the text message on social media a couple of years ago. Now it has resurfaced online after Izzy’s historic win at Miami on April 8 at the Kaseya Center.
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The text message read: “Dana! My man we ready when you are. Just give me 1 shot, get me to that octagon. I’ll take care of the rest.” It is safe to say that Dana White made the right decision since ‘The Last Stylebender’ went on to become one of the most entertaining and credible fighters in the history of the promotion.
The reigning middleweight champion used to visualize the life he lives now
Israel Adesanya had a dream, like most people. He used to dream the life of a professional combat sports athlete and being in the UFC. In the same Instagram post, The Nigerian-born fighter was seen talking about his days working in his old jobs and thinking about fighting during breaks from his old office jobs.
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‘The Last Stylebender’ said, “At my old job during my break, I used to sit by the water cooler close to this big window and just view the whole of the city and dream of the life I am living right now. Yeah.” Adesanya wants to inspire people with his journey and has urged people to be grateful for what they have, but not lose sight of their ultimate goals.
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Israel Adesanya has worked hard for the success he has had in the UFC so far. Dana White has mentioned multiple times that Izzy never backs down from a challenge and is always ready to fight anyone. We will have to wait and see whom he decides to fight next.
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