Nigerian-born UFC star Israel Adesanya has shared the personal journey that led him to become a professional fighter, while also advising aspiring athletes to carve out their own paths rather than simply following in his footsteps.
Speaking during a visit to a Celestial Church of Christ service in Lagos, Adesanya revealed that he initially started fighting as a means of self-defense. Dressed in Celestial attire, he explained that he chose to pursue a professional fighting career after recognising his own talent in the sport.
He credited his father’s support as a crucial factor in his journey, saying, “Without my father’s support, I wouldn’t have become a fighter. My decision to pursue fighting as a career came after I realised I was good at it, and it has worked out well so far.”
Adesanya also emphasised the role of faith in his career. “Faith is essential in life. You can’t walk by sight; you have to walk by faith. Faith has guided me not just in my career but in all aspects of life,” he said. He added that while training and hard work are important, faith helps him face uncertainties and challenges.
Addressing aspiring athletes, Adesanya advised, “Don’t try to follow in my footsteps. Instead, create your own path. Use inspiration from my journey and apply it to your own life. Copying someone else’s success isn’t as valuable as forging your own path with the inspiration you’ve gathered.”
Adesanya, who arrived in Lagos last Wednesday, was warmly welcomed despite his recent loss to South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305. He also visited his hometown of Esa-Oke in Osun State and enjoyed Lagos nightlife, sharing moments from his outings on Instagram.
Despite his loss at UFC 305, Adesanya reportedly earned more than the reigning champion. The bout, held at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, saw Du Plessis defend his UFC Middleweight Championship for the first time, with Adesanya tapping out in the fourth round. Adesanya was guaranteed $750,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis received $500,000, according to reports.
