Reigning UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya believes that Francis Ngannou‘s groundbreaking deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) will compel the UFC to reconsider its business practices. Adesanya expressed his views on his YouTube channel, emphasizing the significance of Ngannou’s move and its potential impact on the sport as a whole. Adesanya believes that the UFC, being an astute organization, will take notice and adapt to the changing landscape.
Adesanya commended Ngannou for his reasonable demands and supported his decision to walk away from the UFC. He acknowledged that facing Ngannou would be a lucrative opportunity for any fighter, given the guaranteed million-dollar purse for his opponents in the PFL. Adesanya also praised Ngannou’s dedication to his home continent, expressing enthusiasm for the potential of PFL Africa and the talented fighters it will showcase.
Regarding his own career, Adesanya confirmed his next fight in Sydney in September. He is set to face the winner of the upcoming title eliminator between Robert Whittaker and Dricus Du Plessis. Adesanya predicted Whittaker would emerge victorious, setting up a trilogy bout between the two fighters in Australia. Adesanya believed Whittaker’s
superior fitness and speed would be decisive, though he admitted his personal bias towards facing Du Plessis.
When asked about the potential third fight with Whittaker, Adesanya anticipated a different dynamic in a new location and venue. However, he expressed doubt about returning to fight in New Zealand, noting the presence of local stars like Dan Hooker, Kai Kara-France, Alexander Volkanovski, and Carlos Ulberg, who could carry the spotlight.
Adesanya praised Ulberg for his impressive knockout victories, hailing him as the hardest kicker in the gym and a skilled hunter. Reflecting on his recent championship win against Alex Pereira at UFC 287, Adesanya described the experience as all-consuming due to the magnitude of the fight, the opponent, and what was at stake.
In addition to his fighting career, Adesanya mentioned his upcoming documentary, which provides insights into his life, childhood, and career and explores themes such as masculinity, bullying, mental health, and the art of fighting and dance. He encouraged people, especially men, to watch the documentary, even if they may not be his fans, as there are valuable lessons to be learned.
As Adesanya continues his journey as a dominant force in the UFC, fans eagerly anticipate his next fight and the impact he will continue to make both inside and outside the Octagon.