By Jennifer Amarachi
Israel Adesanya, a Nigerian-born UFC fighter, has explained what inspired him to pursue a career in combat sports.
This came as he urged prospective sportsmen not to follow in his footsteps, but to forge their own route and draw inspiration from him and other great athletes.
Fielding questions at a Celestial Church of Christ meeting in Lagos, the Last Stylebender explained that he began battling to protect himself.
The fighter, who was dressed in a Celestial robe, stated that he wanted to become a professional fighter after realizing he was skilled at fighting.
He also emphasized the influence of his father, stating that he would not have been a fighter without his father’s backing.
When asked why he chose fighting as a profession, he replied, “That’s a long story, but for me, it was simply standing up for myself.
“It was what it took to learn how to fight, and I soon found I was good at it, so I pursued it as a career, which has worked out well so far.”
Adesanya also stated that faith has played an important role in his career, adding that when preparing for fights, he also relies on faith.
“Faith is something you must have in this life. You cannot walk side by side; you must walk by faith.
“I prepare for my fight through training, hard work, and sometimes, you don’t know what the outcome is going to be and you just have to have faith.
“Faith is something I hold on to in life in general and it helps me in all parts of my life and even in my career.
“I would say make your own route. Get inspiration from someone like myself and what I’ve done, and utilize it to help you in your own life.
“I don’t think it’s worthwhile for people to try to replicate what others are doing right now. If you’re motivated by what someone has done, apply that inspiration to your own life.”
According to a source, the Nigerian-born athlete, who came in Lagos last Wednesday, was greeted as a hero despite his recent loss to South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305. He had also visited his hometown of Esa-Oke, Osun State.
Adesanya was also photographed enjoying Lagos nightlife on Friday night, visiting a prominent club on the island. The mixed martial arts star revealed peeks of his outing on Instagram stories, capturing the interest of fans and celebrities alike.
Despite losing to Dricus du Plessis in an exciting UFC 305 main event, Adesanya reportedly earned more than the current champion.
The fight, which took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, saw Du Plessis successfully defend his UFC Middleweight Championship for the first time, forcing Adesanya to tap out in round four.
The bout, the first-ever UFC title contest between two African fighters, was historically noteworthy and resulted in considerable cash benefits for both competitors.
According to The Sportster, Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, was paid $750,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis received $500,000.
