History of Israel Adesanya in Timeline
Israel Adesanya is a Nigerian-New Zealander professional mixed martial artist, kickboxer, and boxer. He is most known for his MMA career, specifically in the UFC's Middleweight division, where he is a former two-time champion. Adesanya also has a background in kickboxing, having challenged for the Glory Middleweight Championship. As of February 2025, he is ranked #4 in the UFC middleweight rankings, highlighting his continued presence as a top competitor in the division.
September 2020: Adesanya signs with Puma
In September 2020, Israel Adesanya became the first mixed martial arts athlete to sign a sponsorship deal with Puma.
2020: Adesanya Endorses "Yes" Vote in Cannabis Referendum
In 2020, Adesanya endorsed a "yes" vote in the 2020 New Zealand cannabis referendum.
June 2021: Adesanya Advocates Tougher Penalties Against Coward Punching
In June 2021, Adesanya advocated tougher penalties against coward punching following the death of his training partner Fau Vake, who died after being punched in the head the previous month.
June 2023: "Stylebender" documentary debuts at Tribeca Film Festival
In June 2023, "Stylebender", a documentary film focusing on the life of Israel Adesanya, debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival.
August 2023: Adesanya arrested for drunk driving
On 19 August 2023, Israel Adesanya was pulled over for drunk driving in Auckland, New Zealand, and his blood alcohol content was measured at 87mg%, exceeding the legal limit.
January 2024: Adesanya pleads guilty, avoids jail sentence
On 10 January 2024, Adesanya pleaded guilty to drunk driving. He was fined NZ$1,500 and given a six-month driving suspension, avoiding a prison sentence. He also posted videos from inside the court to his social media, which is illegal in New Zealand.
August 2024: Adesanya makes false comments on Twitter
On 1 August 2024, Adesanya made false comments on Twitter in regard to Algerian boxer Imane Khelif's win at the 2024 Summer Olympics. He later apologized and said he would leave women's fights to women.
September 2024: Adesanya involved in road rage incident
In September 2024, Adesanya was involved in a verbal confrontation after a road rage incident in Auckland, New Zealand. Adesanya was caught on video spitting in the direction of the man and alleged he was racially abused.
February 2025: UFC Middleweight Rankings
As of February 2025, Israel Adesanya is ranked #4 in the UFC middleweight rankings.
February 2025: Loss to Nassourdine Imavov
In February 2025, Israel Adesanya faced Nassourdine Imavov in a non-title main event at UFC Fight Night 250 and lost by technical knockout in the second round.
